United Airlines and DIRECTV are bringing live TV streaming to Starlink-enabled seatback screens across up to 150 aircraft, giving travellers access to real-time sports, news and entertainment, including FIFA World Cup coverage.


United Airlines and DIRECTV are bringing live TV streaming to Starlink-enabled seatback screens across up to 150 aircraft, giving travellers access to real-time sports, news and entertainment, including FIFA World Cup coverage.

Iberia has introduced Starlink-powered onboard connectivity on the first aircraft in its fleet, delivering high-speed, free WiFi across all cabins. The service enables seamless gate-to-gate internet access for all passengers.

American Airlines is enhancing the passenger experience on its Airbus A319 and A320 fleets with upgraded cabins, premium seating and improved onboard amenities. The retrofitted aircraft will enter service this summer.

Air France is elevating its onboard experience with a new cocktail collection available across all long-haul cabins. Created in partnership with chef mixologist Matthias Giroud, the drinks celebrate French mixology and craftsmanship.

WestJet is enhancing its onboard food and beverage offering through a new partnership with Calgary’s Tool Shed Brewing Company. From 15 July 2026, travellers will be able to enjoy three locally brewed craft beers.

SWISS is enhancing the passenger experience with digital inflight menus that allow travellers to view meal options before departure and, on eligible flights, pre-select or pre-order their preferred meal.

Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines are enhancing the onboard passenger experience with a refreshed beverage programme featuring a new international Business Class wine selection, premium cold brew coffee and more.

Etihad Airways is marking the launch of new summer routes and the return of seasonal favourites with a limited-edition Summer Essentials Kit designed to enhance comfort, wellbeing and the overall passenger experience.

Iberia has launched a ChatGPT app powered by OpenAI, marking a new step in its digital transformation strategy. The tool enables customers to search, plan and book travel through more natural, conversational interactions.

Southwest Airlines has partnered with Amazon Web Services (AWS) to accelerate its shift to a cloud-based, AI-enabled operating model, targeting full modernisation across its technology ecosystem by 2028.

Avelo Airlines has launched a new Disruption Assistance service powered by HTS (Hopper Technology Solutions), giving customers real-time rebooking and refund options to improve convenience and control during disruptions.

American Airlines is enhancing the connected travel experience through a new FOX One partnership, giving AAdvantage members inflight access to live FIFA World Cup 2026 matches, news and entertainment content.

SAS has rebranded its ‘Conscious Traveler’ initiative as EuroBonus ChangeMakers, giving loyalty members new ways to engage with the airline’s sustainability, operational improvement and ESG-focused programmes.

Wizz Air will become the first European ultra-low-cost carrier to offer Starlink inflight connectivity, bringing high-speed, low-latency internet access to passengers across its fleet from 2027.

The co-located APEX FTE EMEA and Ancillary & Retailing events took place in Dublin on 9 to 11 June 2026, with the theme of ‘Transformative Approaches & Business Models’. Take a look at our visual round-up of the key highlights.

The co-located APEX FTE EMEA and Ancillary & Retailing 2026 events concluded with the FTE Innovate Awards ceremony – the industry’s definitive innovation platform. The FTE EMEA Startup Innovation Award was also presented.
Get Future Travel Experience news & updates sent to your inbox