In the world of air travel, the quest for the ultimate inflight entertainment (IFE) experience can be as crucial as the destination itself, especially on long-haul flights. As we step into 2024, airlines have ramped up their game, providing passengers with state-of-the-art IFE systems packed with movies, TV shows, music, and much more to ensure an enjoyable journey. Not all airlines, however, make the cut when it comes to offering an unparalleled IFE experience. According to a comprehensive evaluation by AirlineRatings, here are the top five airlines that have set the gold standard for inflight entertainment this year.
Leading the pack is Emirates, acclaimed for its world-class IFE offering. Operating flights to 12 major U.S. cities from Dubai, Emirates equips its Boeing 777s and Airbus A380s with the latest and most advanced IFE systems. With over 1,500 movies, 1,500 hours of TV, and an extensive selection of music, games, and podcasts in 40 languages, Emirates ensures that passengers are spoilt for choice. The airline’s Information, Communication, Entertainment (ICE) system stands out for its ability to let passengers curate their personal ‘ice’ playlist before boarding, enhancing the personalized travel experience.
Hot on its heels is Qatar Airways, known for its innovative IFE system that allows passengers to create personalized playlists before their flight. With up to 7,500 entertainment options available through its Oryx One system, Qatar Airways offers an immersive viewing experience. The airline also offers the convenience of syncing the IFE system with personal devices, elevating the passenger experience with high-speed connectivity and the promise of enhanced speeds thanks to a partnership with Starlink.
Cathay Pacific, the winner of the 2023 Skytrax World’s Best Inflight Entertainment award, provides its passengers with over 3,000 hours of content, claiming the largest entertainment library in the Asia Pacific. Monthly updates keep its content fresh, including the latest blockbusters and award-winning TV series. Cathay Pacific also offers live sports through Sport 24, ensuring passengers don’t miss out on major sporting events.
U.S. airline JetBlue takes the title for the best IFE among American carriers, boasting seat-back screens across its entire fleet and offering a diverse range of live TV channels via DirecTV. Its commitment to providing free Wi-Fi to all passengers sets JetBlue apart, making it a preferred choice for many domestic travelers.
Rounding out the top five is Air Canada, which has recently upgraded its IFE system to include popular streaming services like Disney+, Apple TV+, and Paramount+. This addition complements its extensive library of movies, TV shows, and podcasts, making Air Canada’s inflight entertainment one of the most comprehensive in the skies.
While these five airlines lead the way, the competition is fierce, with other carriers like Virgin Atlantic, Delta Air Lines, and Singapore Airlines also offering commendable IFE systems. As airlines continue to innovate and improve their offerings, passengers can look forward to even more engaging and entertaining flights in the years to come.
