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United Airlines details 6 big inflight entertainment updates, including all-new Control Tower map
I'm a frequent United flyer, so imagine my surprise last week when I stumbled upon a new inflight map feature: Control Tower view. This view allows you to pull up a map of the airfield that's overlaid with all the aircraft around you. Clicking on each little plane brings up its call sign and operating airline. Going forward, the pilot won't need to tell you that you're No. 25 for departure — you'll be able to see that clearly on your inflight monitor. Control Tower view… (thepointsguy.com) More...
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What? Are you kidding?? And miss the chance to see moldy old "Cheers" or "Seinfeld" reruns.... Just kidding. Actually, take a look out the window: the greatest show on earth, a unique view, never to be repeated.
Many times the FAs want us closing the shades. When you're the only one with a shade open, it's light a blinding light into the cabin of darkness. Sad.
Except that most other passengers and some flight attendants want the window shades closed. I was on a transpacific flight in BC and every time I left my seat, I would find the window shade closed each time I returned. The FAs were closing it.
I guess buying the seat doesn’t include the window shade. upcharge?
I've never seen a charge for headphones in several decades of flying (always in economy)?
I've always found the maps, and external cameras on some aircraft, delightful. They're also an excellent buffer against frequent "are we there yet?" nagging from children.
And no, you frequently cannot use a device/wireless headphones. They also need to charge...navigating phones/tablets/headphone charging for several children is definitely challenging with 1-2 low powered ports per seat. IFE is a lifesaver, particularly with smaller children, to the point where I would not fly on a plane not equipped with it.
If the internet is down or there's auth issues with streaming apps and downloaded media...you're often outta luck, even if you'd sufficient options downloaded to satisfy whims during what can be an 18 hour flight.
I love the control tower feature they're touting - nevermind my own curiosity, being able to point out to the kids where we are and where we're headed would be great, particularly when you're delayed on the tarmac.
I've always found the maps, and external cameras on some aircraft, delightful. They're also an excellent buffer against frequent "are we there yet?" nagging from children.
And no, you frequently cannot use a device/wireless headphones. They also need to charge...navigating phones/tablets/headphone charging for several children is definitely challenging with 1-2 low powered ports per seat. IFE is a lifesaver, particularly with smaller children, to the point where I would not fly on a plane not equipped with it.
If the internet is down or there's auth issues with streaming apps and downloaded media...you're often outta luck, even if you'd sufficient options downloaded to satisfy whims during what can be an 18 hour flight.
I love the control tower feature they're touting - nevermind my own curiosity, being able to point out to the kids where we are and where we're headed would be great, particularly when you're delayed on the tarmac.
Far too few seem to have their headphones with them. Either that or an overly developed desire to share that same episode of Cheers with the rest of us.
All you need is USB charge port - * that works * - and a device stand/clip on the seat-back: watch what you want to: The days of fleecing people $5 for a headphones loan have long gone.
Pretty much everyone flying has a smartphone and/or iPad like devices and headphones.