Air Arabia joins push to upgrade inflight entertainment

Sharjah-based carrier on Monday launched its new complimentary in-flight entertainment system SkyTime

DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES. 28 OCTOBER 2018. Air Arabia’s 15th Anniversary Celebration at the Air Arabia hanger in the Sharjah Cargo Terminal. Launch of the newly outfitted Airbus. (Photo: Antonie Robertson/The National) Journalist: Sarah Townsend. Section: Business.
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Air Arabia, the largest low-cost carrier (LCC) in the Middle East and North Africa, has become the latest UAE airline to revamp its in-flight entertainments system for passengers.

The Sharjah-based carrier on Monday launched its new complimentary system SkyTime that allows passengers to live-stream digital content on smartphones, tablets or laptops while flying.

Etihad Airways, meanwhile, is removing in-flight entertainment screens and offering wireless entertainment streaming to passengers on their personal electronic devices as part of a new economy class product on its Airbus A320 family narrow-body jets that is scheduled for completion in August this year, the airline said on Sunday.

Emirates, the Dubai-based carrier, said last week it is working on various elements of its new premium-economy class including seats and inflight entertainment.

Air Arabia's new entertainment system is now available across its fleet, the carrier said.

Air Arabia serves over 155 routes from multiple hubs spread across the UAE, Morocco and Egypt, with a fleet of 54 aircraft, and plans for further expansion in 2019.

“We are proud to launch SkyTime, our all new free in-flight entertainment system solely designed to provide customers with add value while onboard Air Arabia flights," said Adel Al Ali, group chief executive of Air Arabia.

"This new launch reflects Air Arabia’s commitment to continuously apply innovative solutions aimed at providing real value and convenience to customers."

Customers can access the app-less SkyTime network after takeoff, and enjoy a wide selection of Hollywood, Bollywood, Arabic and Russian movies, television shows, music, destination tips and games as well as a special offering for younger ones, the airline said.