In today's world of air travel, in-flight entertainment has become an essential part of long-haul journeys. Passengers often find themselves settling into cramped seats, fastening seatbelts, and turning on the screen in front of them. According to airline executives, between 50% and 80% of passengers use these entertainment systems during flights. Movies reign supreme as the top choice for passengers seeking distraction at high altitudes. This article delves into the selection process of in-flight entertainment and the individuals responsible for curating content that keeps passengers engaged.

Curating Content in the Clouds

In the golden era of aviation, when travelers soar through the skies at 35,000 feet, they rely on carefully curated entertainment options to pass the time. Airlines have transformed into vast "cinemas in the sky," with Delta boasting 165,000 screens across its fleet of 840 jets, while United continues to expand its own inventory of seat-back screens. These companies recognize the importance of offering engaging content to their captive audience.

The decision-making process behind selecting movies and other media is far from random. Southwest Airlines entrusts this task to Kennedy Wilson, who operates as a one-person team. At Delta, Ekrem Dimbiloglu leads a dedicated quartet, some of whom attend film festivals to stay ahead of trends. United’s team has grown significantly over the years, expanding from two members to eight, ensuring a diverse range of content that appeals to various passenger preferences.

While the majority of travelers opt for films, certain demographics deviate from this norm. For instance, passengers returning from late-night flights out of Las Vegas or very young children might not engage with the entertainment system. However, for the rest, the availability of popular movies like "Barbie" or even unexpected hits such as "Cats" can make all the difference in making a long flight more enjoyable.

From a journalist's perspective, it's fascinating to see how airlines have adapted to the evolving tastes of their passengers. The meticulous curation of in-flight entertainment reflects a deeper understanding of what keeps people entertained and comfortable during extended periods in the air. As technology advances and passenger expectations rise, the role of these entertainment curators will only grow in significance, ensuring that every flight offers a memorable experience beyond just reaching the destination.