To start with, every seat has 110v power, an Ethernet jack and USB ports; EVERY seat. Add to that the in-flight entertainment system called “Red†developed by Virgin and run over Linux servers giving passengers access to a 3,000 song mp3 library, satellite TV, movies, games and plane-wide chatting! That's right, you can hook up with someone right on the plane with direct passenger to passenger messaging. You can order food and drinks though the system and play Doom, so there's pretty much no reason to leave the plane.
Another cool feature is the "food hot" button - Your movie or game is minimized and you're able to select twhat you want from a list of food and drinks which you can add to your cart. You can pay by credit card and the flight attendants come by and bring you your order. Sweet!
Fly the Networked Skies
Virgin America Debuts "Red" Entertainment Aboard
Trend Themes
1. Networked Airline Entertainment Systems - The development of in-flight entertainment systems, like Virgin America's 'Red', that integrate various features such as music libraries, TV shows, movies, games, and passenger messaging, presents disruptive innovation opportunities for airlines to enhance the passenger experience.
2. In-flight Connectivity - The inclusion of 110v power outlets, Ethernet jacks, and USB ports in every seat of an aircraft enables passengers to stay connected and offers disruptive innovation opportunities for airlines to explore new revenue streams through partnerships with technology companies.
3. Smart Ordering Systems - The implementation of smart ordering systems, like Virgin America's 'food hot' button, that allow passengers to order food and drinks through the in-flight entertainment system and have them delivered to their seats offers disruptive innovation opportunities for airlines to streamline the onboard dining experience and increase customer satisfaction.
Industry Implications
1. Airlines - Airlines have the opportunity to enhance their services by adopting networked entertainment systems and improving in-flight connectivity, which can lead to a competitive advantage and increased customer loyalty.
2. Technology - Technology companies can collaborate with airlines to provide innovative in-flight entertainment solutions and connectivity options, opening up new markets and revenue streams.
3. Hospitality - Hospitality companies can leverage smart ordering systems and onboard dining innovations to enhance the dining experience for airline passengers, creating a unique selling proposition and fostering customer loyalty.