Virgin is adding Netflix to its in-flight entertainment

LAX to JFK? Smash a season of House of Cards

(The Independent)

In fairness, entertainment on planes is pretty good these days, but if you’re determined not to sleep for the duration of the flight and to drink tiny bottles of wine and watch as many movies as possible instead (me), then this news might be of interest.

Virgin America is adding Netflix in its entirety to all of its internal Airbus A320 services, upping its slate of content to thousands and thousands of hours. You could fly from LA to New York and still not have watched all the films starring Nicolas Cage.

In-flight Netflix (which obviously requires you to have a Netflix subscription) might only be available within the US at first, but I wouldn’t be surprised if its added to transatlantic flights by Virgin Atlantic and other carriers fairly soon.

“Netflix and Virgin America are both known for their focus on innovation and for shaking up their respective industries – so we’re thrilled to team up to bring the best in technology and entertainment to the skies," said Abby Lunardini, Virgin America vice president of brand marketing and communications.

Netflix’s global head of business development Bill Holmes added: “As Wi-Fi becomes more ubiquitous, it’s going to be increasingly possible for members to enjoy Netflix wherever they want.

“We’re delighted to partner with Virgin America to extend the joy of Netflix to our members at 35,000 feet.”

Many Netflix users were aghast this morning, when they awoke to find The Office US had disappeared from the service.

@christophhooton