In-flight entertainment systems have been common since the early 2000s. A small screen behind the seat offers a variety of in-flight entertainment. Today Malaysia Airlines unveiled a new cabin design for their Boeing 737-800 NG aircraft that may be the most smart device-friendly ever produced.
No more screens built into every business and economy class passenger seat. Instead passengers use personal smartphone and tablet screens to access in-flight entertainment (IFE) systems that offer movies, TV series, music and podcasts. There are built-in device holders on each seat that can safely house large-sized phones and tablets throughout the flight.
To ensure uninterrupted entertainment, each economy class seat is equipped with USB-A and USB-C charging ports. On business class seats, a three-pin power plug is also provided along with USB-A and USB-C ports.
According to Malaysia Airlines, the combination of thinner seats and no longer providing in-seat entertainment systems will save weight, reducing the aircraft's weight by up to 679 kilograms. This will save the use of up to 1029 liters of fuel per year on each plane making travel more environmentally friendly.