UK-based leisure carrier, Monarch Airlines, has launched MPlayer, an onboard wireless IFE system. The system, supplied by AeroFi and installed by Monarch Aircraft Engineering Limited (MAEL) – its independent aircraft maintenance division – will allow customers to connect to the on-board wireless network via their own iOS or Android smartphone or tablet and access a wide range of free and pay-to-access IFE content.
The AeroFi system comprises an aircraft server under the flight deck which stores all content and control software, and wireless access points are located throughout the aircraft. Monarch is having the systems installed by MAEL during scheduled maintenance checks – six aircraft have been fitted with MPlayer to date, and installations will continue during 2014 and into 2015. In order to access the system, passengers will need to download the free MPlayer app before their Monarch flight. The app is available in the AppStore, GooglePlay and Amazon App Store.
The MPlayer media bundle costs GB£3.99 per person per flight, giving passengers access to: five blockbuster Hollywood movies, over 50 episodes of BBC Worldwide programmes spanning many genres, and an extensive music library of over 50 albums. Customers are able to browse information about the content before they make their purchase (the media bundle fee applies to each flight to access the premium content, including returning passengers).
In addition to paid-to-access content, free services include digital versions of Monarch’s in-flight magazine and duty-free catalogue; destination restaurant reviews from TripAdvisor; and destination bar reviews provided by BarChick.
The new system complements Monarch’s new seats, which feature a tablet holder in the seatback so customers can watch their devices without having to hold them or use the tray-table.
