United Airlines announces “iPod-compatible” airplanes on international routes

In a sign of things to come, a major carrier striving to cut costs by cancelling flights and shedding staff has rolled out its first iPod-compatible airplane. Yesterday, beleaguered carrier United Airlines became the first US airline to offer an iPod connector for its in-flight entertainment systems.

The systems feature an iPod dock, naturally compatible with the iPhone, which connects it to the 15.4-inch LCD screen for viewing video content as well as listening to music, all while charging the iPod's battery.

Through a cable that supports iPod and iPhone via the 30-pin connector, customers may watch and enjoy their personal content on United's in-flight entertainment system. Technology for the connectivity was developed by Panasonic Avionics Corporation.

The customised video and audio options complements the more than 150 hours of movies and television shows available on-demand on United's newly-configured international aircraft, as well as games and XM radio.

However, this facility is restricted to first and business class passengers, a benefit similar to uncharged checked-in bags on domestic flights for which flyers in economy have to pay. (See: Fuel impact: US airlines jettison freebies, slash routes and jobs)

The first aircraft with iPod and iPhone connectivity is scheduled to depart at 5:40 p.m. from Washington, DC to Zurich as United No. 936, and it will fly primarily on trans-Atlantic routes. United's entire fleet of international, wide-body aircraft are being reconfigured over the next two years with lie-flat seats and on-demand entertainment incorporating this latest feature.

"Our guests may now watch or listen to what they want, when they want with programming they choose," says Graham Atkinson, United Airlines - executive vice president and Chief Customer Officer. "United will continue to provide services and technology that makes our customers' travel experiences more relaxed and enjoyable."

"The iPod and iPhone have become essential for millions of travelers around the world," said Greg Joswiak, Apple's vice president of iPod & iPhone Product Marketing. "We think United customers are going to love being able to listen or watch personal music and video content on their iPod or iPhone via the in-flight entertainment system, and we can't wait for United to roll this out to their fleet."