Best Airlines For In-Flight Entertainment

Is in-flight entertainment important for travelers?

In-flight entertainment has become an important aspect of air travel, providing passengers with a variety of entertainment options to enhance their flying experience. Several airlines offer a range of entertainment choices to keep passengers entertained during their flights. Some airlines known for their superior in-flight entertainment options include JetBlue, Delta, Southwest, American Airlines, Emirates, United Airlines, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, and Virgin Atlantic.

For example, JetBlue is well-regarded for its in-flight entertainment, offering passengers a personal seatback screen with live TV, movies, and various channels. Delta Airlines also provides a wide selection of entertainment options through its Delta Studio, where passengers can enjoy over 1,000 hours of free entertainment, including Hollywood films, TV series, and curated playlists. Southwest Airlines offers free movies, live TV, and drink menus accessible through their inflight portal via Wi-Fi.

American Airlines allows passengers to stream a library of movies, music, TV shows, and more for free on most flights. Emirates, known for its luxurious service, offers an exceptional in-flight entertainment system with a wide range of entertainment choices, including movies, TV shows, music, games, and live TV on demand. United Airlines provides various inflight entertainment options, and passengers can access movies and TV shows on their own devices using the United app.

How to find travel airlines with the best in-flight entertainment?

By following these steps, you can narrow down your options and find airlines that prioritize a top-notch in-flight entertainment experience, ensuring an enjoyable journey during your travels:

1. Research airline options: Look for reputable airlines known for their exceptional in-flight entertainment offerings. Read reviews and check customer feedback to get an idea of the quality and variety of entertainment options.

2. Check airline websites: Visit the websites of different airlines and explore their in-flight entertainment sections. Look for information on the types of entertainment available, such as movies, TV shows, music, games, and interactive features.

3. Consider connectivity options: Inquire about the availability of Wi-Fi onboard and its quality. Some airlines offer internet connectivity, allowing passengers to stream content, browse the web, or stay connected with friends and family during the flight.

4. Compare entertainment offerings: Compare the range and variety of entertainment options provided by different airlines. Look for airlines that offer a wide selection of movies, TV shows, music genres, and interactive features to cater to diverse passenger preferences.

5. Take note of special features: Some airlines offer unique amenities, such as live TV, on-demand streaming services, gaming consoles, or dedicated entertainment apps. Consider these special features when evaluating the in-flight entertainment experience.

6. Consider your personal preferences: Think about your own entertainment preferences. Do you prefer a wide selection of movies and TV shows, access to the latest releases, or specific genres of music? Choose an airline that aligns with your preferences.

Emirates:

As is the largest operator of the Airbus A380, with a fleet of over 100 of the superjumbo planes, Emirates is known for its luxurious amenities, including private suites with flatbeds, an onboard shower spa, and gourmet dining options.

Pros:

1. Extensive selection of movies, TV shows, and music: Emirates offers a vast library of entertainment options, ensuring there is something for every passenger's taste.

2. Large personal screens: The airline provides generously sized individual screens, enhancing the viewing experience and making it more immersive.

3. High-quality headphones: Passengers are provided with premium headphones, delivering superior sound quality and allowing them to enjoy their entertainment without any disruptions.

Cons:

1. Limited options for non-English content: While Emirates offers a diverse range of entertainment, the selection of non-English content might be more limited compared to English-language options.

2. Occasional technical issues with the entertainment system: Like any complex system, there may be occasional glitches or technical difficulties that could affect the in-flight entertainment experience.

Singapore Airlines:

Singapore Airlines is consistently ranked as one of the world's best airlines, with a focus on exceptional service and attention to detail. It was the first airline to offer a double bed in its first-class suites, providing a unique and luxurious travel experience.

Pros:

1. Diverse entertainment choices: Singapore Airlines offers a wide array of entertainment options, catering to different interests and preferences.

2. High-definition screens: The airline provides high-definition screens, ensuring sharp and vibrant visuals for an enhanced viewing experience.

3. Interactive features: Passengers can enjoy interactive features on their personal screens, adding an extra layer of engagement to their entertainment.

Cons:

1. Limited live TV channels: While Singapore Airlines offers various entertainment options, the availability of live TV channels may be relatively limited.

2. May not have the latest movie releases: Depending on the flight and timing, there could be a delay in offering the most recent movie releases in the entertainment selection.

Qatar Airways:

As is known for its state-of-the-art fleet, including the Boeing 787 Dreamliner and the Airbus A350, Qatar Airways has won numerous awards for its inflight entertainment system, which includes over 4,000 options for movies, TV shows, and music.

Pros:

1. Wide range of entertainment options: Qatar Airways offers an extensive range of entertainment choices, providing ample entertainment for passengers during their journey.

2. Award-winning Oryx One system: The airline's Oryx One system has received recognition for its user-friendly interface and intuitive navigation, enhancing the overall entertainment experience.

3. Excellent audio quality: Qatar Airways ensures high-quality audio delivery, allowing passengers to enjoy their chosen entertainment with excellent sound clarity.

Cons:

1. Occasional limited availability of popular movies: Due to licensing agreements and content rotations, there may be instances where popular movies are not available on certain flights.

2. Some older aircraft may have smaller screens: While Qatar Airways continuously updates its fleet, older aircraft might have smaller screens, which could slightly impact the viewing experience for some passengers.

Cathay Pacific:

Based in Hong Kong, Cathay Pacific offers a range of flights to destinations across Asia and beyond. It is known for its high-quality inflight dining options, which feature a mix of Western and Asian cuisine.

Pros:

1. Extensive selection of movies, TV shows, and documentaries: Cathay Pacific offers a wide range of entertainment options to cater to different interests and preferences.

2. High-quality audio and video: The airline ensures excellent audio and video quality, providing passengers with a captivating and immersive entertainment experience.

3. User-friendly interface: Cathay Pacific's entertainment system is designed to be intuitive and easy to navigate, allowing passengers to find and enjoy their preferred entertainment effortlessly.

Cons:

1. Limited live TV channels: While Cathay Pacific offers a variety of entertainment options, the availability of live TV channels may be limited compared to other airlines.

2. Relatively smaller screens on some aircraft: On certain aircraft, the screens may be slightly smaller, which could affect the viewing experience for passengers who prefer larger screens.

Virgin Atlantic:

Virgin Atlantic is a renowned British airline that stands out for its enjoyable and unique flying experience, offering special features such as onboard bars and lounges.

Moreover, Virgin Atlantic holds the distinction of being the pioneering airline to introduce a premium economy cabin, catering to passengers seeking a higher level of comfort and additional amenities beyond economy class, yet without the expense associated with first or business class.

Pros:

1. Wide selection of movies, TV shows, and games: Virgin Atlantic provides a diverse range of entertainment options to keep passengers entertained throughout their journey.

2. In-seat power and USB ports: Passengers have the convenience of charging their personal devices during the flight, ensuring uninterrupted access to their chosen entertainment.

3. Personal touchscreen monitors: Virgin Atlantic offers individual touchscreen monitors, allowing passengers to have full control over their entertainment experience.

Cons:

1. Limited availability of non-English content: While Virgin Atlantic provides a comprehensive selection of entertainment, there may be a relatively limited offering of non-English language content.

2. Occasional variation in the entertainment selection: Depending on the aircraft and route, there may be slight variations in the available entertainment options, and not all flights may have the same offerings.

Etihad Airways:

Etihad Airways, the flag carrier of the United Arab Emirates, is renowned for its opulent offerings, encompassing lavish features such as private suites and onboard culinary masters.

Distinguishing itself, Etihad Airways has forged a collaboration with the esteemed hospitality brand, The Ritz-Carlton, granting passengers unparalleled access to bespoke experiences and exceptional amenities.

From the moment you step onboard an Etihad flight, you will be immersed in a world of luxury, comfort, and impeccable service. The airline's dedication to creating extraordinary experiences has earned it a reputation as one of the leading providers of premium air travel, catering to the needs and desires of discerning travelers seeking an elevated journey.

Turkish Airlines:

Pros:

1. Extensive entertainment library: Turkish Airlines offers a wide selection of movies, TV shows, music, and games, ensuring there is something for everyone's taste.

2. Large personal screens: Passengers can enjoy their entertainment on generously sized personal screens, enhancing the viewing experience.

3. Interactive entertainment system: The airline's entertainment system provides a user-friendly interface and interactive features, allowing passengers to customize their entertainment preferences.

Cons:

1. Limited availability of live TV channels: Turkish Airlines may have a limited number of live TV channels compared to some other airlines.

2. Variations in entertainment options: The availability of certain movies, TV shows, or other entertainment content may vary depending on the flight, route, or aircraft, which could impact the selection available to passengers.

Qantas:

Pros:

1. Extensive entertainment library: Qantas offers a diverse range of entertainment options, including movies, TV shows, music, and podcasts, ensuring a wide selection for passengers.

2. High-quality screens and audio: The airline provides high-quality screens and audio systems, delivering a superior entertainment experience.

3. In-flight Wi-Fi and app access: Passengers can access in-flight Wi-Fi and utilize the Qantas app to stream entertainment content directly to their personal devices.

Cons:

1. Limited availability of live TV channels: Qantas may offer a limited number of live TV channels, which may not be as extensive as some other airlines.

2. Inconsistency in Wi-Fi availability: The availability of in-flight Wi-Fi may vary depending on the aircraft and route, and there may be instances where it is not available.

Delta Air Lines:

Delta Air Lines, a global aviation powerhouse, stands as a prominent player in the industry with its vast array of domestic and international flight connections.

Delta Air Lines takes pride in its exceptional in-flight entertainment offerings, ensuring a delightful and immersive experience for passengers throughout their journey. With a wide selection of movies, TV shows, and music, travelers have access to a vast entertainment library that caters to diverse tastes and preferences.

You can indulge in the latest Hollywood blockbusters, catch up on your favorite TV series, or explore a rich collection of music albums and playlists. Delta Air Lines goes the extra mile by curating a diverse range of content, including popular and critically acclaimed titles, to keep you engaged and entertained.

Air France:

Pros:

1. Wide selection of movies, TV shows, and music: Air France offers an extensive library of entertainment options to cater to different preferences.

2. High-quality screens and noise-canceling headphones: Passengers can enjoy their chosen entertainment on high-quality screens and use noise-canceling headphones for an immersive experience.

3. Interactive entertainment system: The airline's entertainment system features an intuitive interface and interactive features, providing passengers with a seamless entertainment experience.

Cons:

1. Limited availability of live TV channels: Air France may have a limited selection of live TV channels compared to some other airlines.

2. Limited non-English language content: The availability of non-English language movies and TV shows may be relatively limited, which could be a drawback for non-English-speaking passengers.

How can I improve my inflight entertainment?

Apart from the the elaborate services that the airline company has provided for you, there are a list of things that you can do to make your flight experience a cozy and interesting one.

1. Prioritize personal devices: Bring your own electronic devices such as a tablet, smartphone, or laptop loaded with your favorite movies, TV shows, music, and books. Make sure to download content in advance as some airlines may not offer reliable internet connectivity.

2. Noise-canceling headphones: Invest in a good pair of noise-canceling headphones to block out ambient noise and enjoy your entertainment without distractions.

3. Carry a power bank: To ensure your devices stay charged throughout the flight, carry a portable power bank or charger. This way, you can continue using your devices without worrying about battery life.

What is the future of inflight entertainment?

Despite the ongoing discussions about making WiFi a standard part of in-flight entertainment (IFE), there is the potential for an exciting development in the form of cloud gaming. This innovative approach enables gamers to stream games from powerful central servers and play them on any device connected to the ecosystem. Just imagine starting a game on your TV and seamlessly continuing it during your morning bus commute to work.

If we take a farther look into the future, it is evident that the augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) are innovative technologies that have the power to completely immerse us in virtual environments or enhance our current surroundings.

Picture yourself seated comfortably, receiving a headset equipped with noise-canceling headphones that can transform your entire visual field into a simulated 80-inch screen, effectively eliminating the need for heavy in-flight entertainment systems. Alternatively, envision wearing a headset that transports you to a different location, away from the confines of an airplane seat and the unwanted presence of a fellow passenger you wish to ignore.