Worth Knowing: Alaska Airlines: Do Their Planes Have TVs?
As one of the most popular airlines in the United States, Alaska Airlines is known for its exceptional service, comfortable seating, and scenic routes. But have you ever wondered if their planes are equipped with in-flight entertainment systems, specifically TVs? In this article, we'll delve into the details of Alaska Airlines' in-flight entertainment options, providing you with a comprehensive answer to this question.
Alaska Airlines operates a fleet of modern aircraft, with over 300 planes in service. While they may not be as flashy as some of their competitors, they have made significant investments in in-flight entertainment systems. However, the availability of TVs on their planes is limited, and it's not as straightforward as it may seem. To understand the nuances, let's take a closer look at Alaska Airlines' in-flight entertainment options.
Alaska Airlines' In-Flight Entertainment Options
Alaska Airlines offers a range of in-flight entertainment options, including:
Seatback Screens
Most of Alaska Airlines' aircraft are equipped with seatback screens, which provide access to a library of movies, TV shows, music, and games. These screens are available on many of their planes, including their Boeing 737-800 and 737-900ER aircraft. However, not all seats have screens, and availability varies depending on the aircraft configuration.
Portable Entertainment Devices (PEDs)
On some of Alaska Airlines' aircraft, you'll find portable entertainment devices (PEDs) attached to the seat in front of you. These PEDs offer a similar range of entertainment options as the seatback screens, but they're not as common as you might think. They're typically found on their shorter flights and are usually found on the airline's smaller aircraft, such as the Bombardier Q400 and Q200.
Movies and TV Shows
Alaska Airlines' in-flight entertainment library features a wide range of movies and TV shows. You can expect to find popular Hollywood blockbusters, as well as classic films and TV shows from various networks. They also offer a selection of original content, including Alaska Airlines' own documentary series, "The Last Frontier." However, the selection can be limited, and it's not uncommon for the same movies and shows to be played repeatedly.
Music and Games
In addition to movies and TV shows, Alaska Airlines' in-flight entertainment system also offers a range of music and games. You can browse through a selection of popular artists and albums, or try your hand at a game of trivia or puzzle-solving.
Aircraft Configuration and Seat Selection
The availability of in-flight entertainment systems, including TVs, depends on the aircraft configuration and seat selection. Here's a breakdown of what you can expect:
Boeing 737-800 and 737-900ER Aircraft
These are the most common aircraft in Alaska Airlines' fleet, and they're typically equipped with seatback screens. However, seat selection is key – not all seats have screens, and some seats may have limited or no access to in-flight entertainment.
Bombardier Q400 and Q200 Aircraft
These smaller aircraft often have PEDs attached to the seat in front of you. However, availability can be limited, and not all seats may have access to the in-flight entertainment system.
MD-80 Aircraft
Alaska Airlines' MD-80 aircraft are older planes, and they're not equipped with seatback screens or PEDs. However, the airline has announced plans to retire these aircraft, so it's worth keeping an eye on their website for updates.
How to Check for In-Flight Entertainment Availability
Before your flight, you can check the Alaska Airlines website to see if your aircraft is equipped with in-flight entertainment systems. Simply:
1. Go to the Alaska Airlines website
2. Click on the "Flights" tab
3. Enter your flight number or route
4. Click on the "Seat Map" link
5. Look for the "Entertainment" section, which will indicate if in-flight entertainment is available on your flight
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Alaska Airlines does offer in-flight entertainment systems, including TVs, the availability can be limited and depends on the aircraft configuration and seat selection. If you're planning to fly with Alaska Airlines, it's worth checking their website to see if your aircraft has in-flight entertainment available. By understanding the nuances of their in-flight entertainment options, you can better prepare for your flight and make the most of your travel experience.
