Monday is a holiday, so no post for me. I’ll be back Tuesday.
Airlines Phasing Out Screens Because You Are All on Your Devices – New York Times
I had a wide-ranging conversation with the author of this story after he read my post on American’s decision to stop taking new narrowbody airplanes with in-seat video. It’s certainly an interesting topic, especially for those outside the industry who aren’t too close to the decision-making process.
Flew recently on an a heritage HP A320 AUS-LAX, new interior, no seatback screens. While it was nice to be able to stream content on my laptop, i found the lack of space between seats, even in MCE, to be lacking, forcing me to hold my laptop at funny angles in order to get the best viewing angle. Over time, on a three-plus hour flight, this becomes a problem and like the author mentioned with seatback screens, it’s nice to be able to have it in the background and be able to come and go. But on the other hand it was nice not having the big box at my feet. Also, I don’t recall if there were power outlets, but I did miss the USB charging port that is available on the newer A319 and A321’s.
Like was said, if they jam more seats in after the screens are removed, you may only have room to hold a smartphone or small table to view your own content. They’ll be no room for a laptop to work on or view entertainment on.