WestJet has signed a multi-year deal with Panasonic Avionics to provide passengers with in-flight satellite connectivity, live television streaming and on-demand movies.
Passengers will be able to use their own personal electronic device (PED) or laptop to stream live and stored content on Boeing 737 Next Generation aircraft. Passengers travelling without their own device will be able to rent a tablet in-flight, while they will also be able to purchase packages to surf the Internet and access emails.
Marshall Wilmot, Vice President, Product and Distribution, WestJet, said: “We are very excited to take the next step in the evolution of our in-flight entertainment system. We were proud to be the first Canadian airline to offer live television onboard our aircraft beginning in 2004, and today we are announcing a completely new system designed to offer WestJet guests a broader selection of entertainment options than ever before.”
Wilmot also explained the new service will help to satisfy business passengers who fly with WestJet. He stated: “We know that roughly 75% of our guests are bringing their own devices onboard today. They tell us they want the opportunity to connect to check their email, put the finishing touches on a presentation, or keep in touch with family and friends.”
