The future of seatback inflight entertainment

I often get asked to comment about the future of seatback Inflight entertainment (IFE) for commercial airlines. There are many different opinions with no easy or simple answers, not to mention several angles to look at this from. Over the past decade we have seen the introduction of several new seatback IFE features and enhancements, increasing reliability, improvements in Customer Satisfaction, maximum passenger engagement and exciting revenue generating opportunities. So why then would its future be in question? Despite these benefits, it is still creating several challenges and pain points within and beyond the cabin for airlines.

So what does the future of seatback IFE look like?  Well, I am not drafting any obituaries for seatback IFE just yet. It will be around in its current form for some time to come, particularly as we journey through the post pandemic recovery period. Given that the decision to add or upgrade seatback IFE can be made several years prior to aircraft entry into service, the real question in my mind is whether there will be growth when innovation and improvements are slow in some areas of the product, processes, and regulation not to mention all the wireless options that continue to emerge. 

Throughout the pandemic, seatback IFE brought unexpected challenges and learnings, offering considerations and options that one could have never imagined to ever be presented with. This will most likely shape future decision making, influence the evolution of the product and the overall inflight entertainment experience that airlines want to offer. 

With recovery underway, how are decisions being made today? Are the current IFE products on offer today the right fit for future aircraft entering service in the next 2-5 years? Should these future programs include seatback IFE? Can we future proof it? Does it really make sense? The list goes on...

With what is offered today, seatback IFE may or may not be the right product for upcoming aircraft programs. Continuing to ask the right questions will help guide the way. However, never underestimate the investment of time and resources, as it can and most likely will be, mammoth. More often than not, seatback IFE needs a village to successfully create and deploy a truly engaging entertaining experience for passengers which will deliver the benefits back to the airline. Hence, any decision surrounding the addition or upgrade of seatback IFE needs to be diligently researched, analyzed and fully understood by the airline before committing to it. Caveat emptor!