After American Airlines did away with screens on seat backs, figuring that passengers would rather use their ubiquitous personal devices, it has now changed course.
The carrier just announced that it is upgrading its fleet with “state-of-the-art” entertainment screens on every seatback in its retrofitted aircraft and new Airbus and Boeing planes.
You’ll see these on domestic and short-haul domestic flights starting in 2028. (Long-haul flights have always had the big-screen seatback entertainment screens.
According to American Airlines, passengers will be able to enjoy free movies and TV shows, music and games. They can also charge their gadgets on USB-C ports at every seat and connect through Bluetooth.
Why the change? American Airlines cited advancements in technology, such as satellite internet, and a shift in customers’ in-flight entertainment habits. For example, the younger generations of fliers prefer access to multiple devices and larger screens.
“New planes look old without them, old planes look new when they’re installed,” said Gary Leff, founder of the aviation blog View from the Wing, “and many passengers see them as difference makers in the onboard experience.”