Emirates Airlines Introduces Next-Generation Inflight Entertainment System with First A350-900 Aircraft Flight
Dubai, UAE – Emirates Airlines is heralding a new era in inflight entertainment with its inaugural flight of the Airbus A350-900, which took off on January 3, 2025, from Dubai to Edinburgh, Scotland. This historic flight signifies not just an expansion of Emirates’ fleet—set to include a total of 65 new aircraft—but also the rollout of an enhanced version of its renowned ‘ice’ inflight entertainment (IFE) system, powered by Thales’s state-of-the-art AVANT Up technology.
The introduction of this next-generation IFE system promises to elevate the passenger experience by integrating a host of futuristic features designed to ensure that travelers are both entertained and connected throughout their journey. With the installation of Thales’s cutting-edge 4K QLED HDR displays, Emirates is aiming to deliver the best picture quality available on any aircraft. In addition to stunning visuals, the A350-900’s layout boasts ultra-responsive touchscreens, enabling passengers to navigate through an extensive catalog of entertainment options with ease.
Notably, this system also emphasizes connectivity, featuring 60W USB-C fast charging options and the ability to pair two Bluetooth devices simultaneously. This advancement addresses a growing consumer demand for onboard services that allow passengers to stay connected with their personal devices while traveling at 30,000 feet.
An Enhanced Entertainment Experience
The ‘ice’ IFE system on the Emirates A350 is equipped with over 30 new features, further underscoring the airline’s commitment to innovation in the aviation sector. For instance, passengers will enjoy industry-first live television broadcasting, allowing them to catch live sports, news, and special events in real-time—features that reflect the airline’s understanding of modern viewing habits.
Moreover, the system introduces a unique Digital Video Recording capability and a feature called ‘iceMoments,’ offering short, engaging video content that can be easily consumed during flights. Travelers will benefit from a sophisticated smart search engine within the user interface, streamlined navigation controls, and a dedicated UI designed specifically for younger passengers, ensuring that all demographics are catered to onboard.
Personalization and Inclusivity
One of the standout features of the new IFE system is its emphasis on personalization. Passengers will be able to log into their individual seats, save their viewing preferences, and even receive curated content recommendations, enhancing not only the entertainment experience but also the overall comfort during their journey.
Further highlighting the airline’s commitment to inclusive travel, the A350’s system provides an award-winning user interface specifically designed for passengers with vision impairments. This interface includes audio-cue navigation assistance and a wide selection of audio-descriptive content, ensuring a more accessible inflight experience for all travelers.
Industry Collaboration for Quality and Safety
The launch of the new aircraft and its innovative IFE system is the result of a strategic partnership between Emirates Airlines and Thales. In a statement made during the launch, Niels Steenstrup, the Chief Executive Officer of Thales InFlyt Experience, expressed pride in their collaboration, stating, “Thales is honored to celebrate alongside Emirates the airline’s first A350 taking flight. Together, we accelerate the future of inflight entertainment to constantly elevate the benchmark of the inflight experience.” This partnership not only enhances passenger experience but also sets a new standard for the airline industry in terms of quality and safety.
Conclusion
As Emirates Airlines continues to innovate and expand, the A350-900 emerges as a symbol of its commitment to enhancing passenger experience through technological advancements. The integrated Thales IFE system not only promises entertainment but ensures that travelers remain connected and engaged, transforming the way we perceive air travel. With such initiatives, Emirates is not merely adapting to market trends; it is setting the stage for the future of air travel, where comfort, inclusivity, and advanced technology converge to enrich the flying experience.
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