Jetstar has revealed plans to trial the iPad as an in-flight entertainment option, with customers to pay $10 to rent the Apple device on board selected domestic routes from June.
According to a statement issued by the company this morning, the iPads provided to customers will come with movies, TV programs, eBooks, music videos, games and music CDs, with the company’s chief executive officer Bruce Buchanan describing the pilot as “very exciting” as it anticipated huge demand for Apple’s tablet from customers.
“Given the demand for the iPad so far, I anticipate it will have strong appeal amongst our passengers,” the executive said. “In addition to offering low fares, great customer service and more choice, it’s important that we can provide the latest in innovative technology to entertain our customers on board.”
“Based on demand for the iPads as part of the trial, we’ll be looking to roll out the devices across our entire domestic and international network later in the year.” Jetstar will work with in-flight entertainment specialist Bluebox Avionics and Stellar Inflight on the trial.
Comment is being sought from Jetstar as to how many iPads it will order, and whether it anticipates difficulties with getting the devices on time — at least one customer has reported that Apple Australia has placed a temporary embargo on corporate orders of the iPad due to strong consumer demand.
Delimiter