TUI has introduced a digital entertainment system across 59 Boeing aircraft operating throughout Europe, enabling travellers to access films, messaging services and holiday booking features via personal devices during flights.
The airline plans to extend the technology to 15 more aircraft before the end of the year. Passengers can now use their smartphones or tablets to browse entertainment options, communicate through WhatsApp and arrange destination activities whilst airborne.
With this, holidaymakers have more opportunities to get excited for their trip from the sky and begin planning their holiday before they land.
The entertainment catalogue features 100 films available in eight languages, alongside 20 television programmes, 16 podcasts and six games. Travellers can access exclusive programming, including “TUI World Cook Season 1” without charge.
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TUI has become the first carrier globally to offer WhatsApp during flights
TUI has become the first carrier in the world to offer WhatsApp during flights through the Iridium Certus network.
The messaging service works on both iOS and Android devices, with hourly rates starting at €3.50 (£3) or €6 (£5.20) for complete flight coverage, varying by journey length.
Entertainment access costs €3.90 or £3.35 per device, providing full access to the film, series and podcast library.
Chief commercial officer, TUI Airline, Peter Glade said: “Our new platform seamlessly combines entertainment, travel information, and services right where our guests’ holiday begins: onboard.
“This makes TUI even more digital and optimises our in-flight experience for customers across Europe. We are also very proud to be the first airline to enable our guests to book exclusive excursions for their holiday destination while jetting to the beach.”
Through TUI Musement, Britons can browse and book from over 1,500 destination experiences directly from their seats. After touchdown, they’ll receive an email containing a secure payment link to finalise reservations within minutes.
Experiences on offer include city tours with local guides, culinary workshops and cultural performances. TUI currently offers promotional rates on its “TUI Collection” range, featuring sustainable experiences designed to provide genuine destination insights.
Chief marketing officer of TUI Musement Mirco Fiumene added: “Our mission is to make memorable, high-quality experiences easily accessible to every traveller, wherever they are.
“By integrating our curated portfolio directly into the in-flight platform, we not only inspire guests to dream about their destination but also empower them to start shaping their trip while still in the air. It’s a seamless extension of the TUI experience digital, personalised, and designed to make every moment of the journey count.”
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The system includes shopping facilities and activity suggestions, plus flight data
The system includes shopping facilities and activity suggestions, plus flight data such as 3D mapping, altitude readings, journey duration, external temperature and aircraft speed.
Director of customer, cabin crew and inflight services, TUI Airline, Jill Nye, explained: “The positive feedback confirms that with our new in-flight platform, we are meeting our guests’ needs precisely.
“We are committed to a long-lasting, flexible solution that grows with the expectations of our passengers and sustainably improves the flight experience. Today, we are already exploring the next innovation steps, such as the use of high-speed connectivity or the integration of further content.”
Plans for expanding messaging options include adding iMessage functionality in the coming months.
