Thursday, 19 May 2005

WestJet airlines announced this week that it is the first Canadian airline to offer an in-flight live television service.

The company said that all of its Boeing 737-700 aircraft are now equipped with live satellite television and will offer a selection of up to 24 television channels from Bell ExpressVu in every seat.

The real-time in-flight experience features individual adjustable seatback screens, personal headphones and an armrest control to change TV channels, brightness and volume levels.

Channels currently on the service include the four major US network, the major Canadian networks and a variety of Canadian specialty stations.

``We are excited to bring our guests this innovative entertainment option on all our 737-700 aircraft to further differentiate WestJet from our competitors,`` said Clive Beddoe, President and CEO, WestJet.

In July 2004, WestJet obtained Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) approval from the Federal Aviation Administration in the United States as well as STC approval from Transport Canada allowing it to fly its first live satellite television-equipped Boeing Next-Generation 737-700 aircraft. Since then, most of the installations of the live satellite television system were done in Abbotsford, B.C.

``As we continue to increase the length of our flights we recognize the importance of offering additional services for our guests who are traveling extensive distances,`` said Beddoe. ``Feedback from guests who have used this product has been extremely positive.``

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