Individual video test by Qantas

Press, 19 July 1988, Page 26

Individual video test by Qantas

First class passengers flying on Qantas’ onestop service from Sydney to London (via Bangkok) will soon be able to watch a selection of video programmes on. individual screens which will come up out of the arm rests of their chairs The screens will begin a three-month trial from mid-September in a Boeing 747-300. During that time Qantas will get passenger feedback on the service and on programming. Initially there will be a choice of six channels offering a range of two or three-hour programmes — sports, music, current affairs, — in the same way as a selection of audio programmes is currently offered. The use of non-glare liquid crystal screens will ensure that there is no inconvenience to adjacent passengers. The video programmes will be offered in addition to the regular in-flight movies and audio programmes. Air New Zealand has no immediate plans to install similar video screens in its long-haul aircraft. The airline’s public affairs manager, Mr Ken Morton, said yesterday that the company was aware of the tests being undertaken overseas, but would probably wait to see the results, before making a move. Air New Zealand has, however, installed video equipment in its 8747 s and 8767 s that show the route and position of flights on screens in the passenger cabins. — LES BLOXHAM