Well it seems maybe I should lobby BA for some money and copyright. But I’m not an evil person (damn my love of the open source movement).
British Airways is to introduce iPads in British Airways First on a trial with aircraft with the GMIS systems installed. These aircraft have no AVOD (rather a rolling video system with small screens).
These frames are due in the shop during the next two years for an upgrade to the new Thales based IFE system. However until then, they need something to tide them over as DVD’s aren’t cutting it.
Trials commenced on the 18th May on a 4 week run (so they’re in the final weeks of it now), and initial feedback is positive which should lead to an infleet introduction.
Whilst the iPads have been loaded up with content,there is only so much you can load on the systems – which is why the long term solution of a Thales IFE system is needed – remember kids 16GB, 32GB or 64GB can only go so far – and is charged at-seat (which means if you want to use your laptop at the same time, one device must be on power, the other has to suffer).
And don’t think of heading off or trying to rip the data off them – the devices are locked down.
But it’s interesting to see these devices on a plane. To be honest, I’m wondering why these haven’t made it onboard the premium BA1/2/3/4 LCY-JFK service yet…..
