BA aircraft to get "everything on demand" system
Thales has struck a deal to install its AVODIFE on British Airways' next generation aircraft.
The "multimillion pound" TopSeries system will feature on all B777-300ERs, Airbus A380 aircraft and B787 Dreamliners due for delivery in 2010.
"The new Thales IFE system will go way beyond the basics," said Jamie Cassidy, British Airways' general manager, product management.
The "everything on demand" system offers passengers in all classes USB, RCA and power connections, with interactive games and applications for a "web-like" experience.
First, Club World and World Traveller Plus cabins will get wider screens than in economy, and noise cancelling headphones.
The high performance system has gigabit Ethernet networks for high speed data throughput.
According to Thales, 40 airlines have opted to install TopSeries, the "preferred option" for the B777.
Last year Saudi Arabian Airlines announced similar plans to retrofit 22 of its B777-200s with Thales IFEs.
BA said it has no plans to retrofit its existing fleet at this time.
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