CHARLOTTE, N.C. — If you're hopping on a holiday flight this week, the entertainment options could be impact you more than you realize.
In-flight entertainment is more than killing time. It may be the airlines' answer to getting more passengers.
Let's connect the dots.
Popular movies like "Barbie" and "Elf" aren't just eye candy to distract you from a long flight. Airlines are actually using them to fill up seats.
No, most passengers aren't going to book with a certain airline just for their movie selection; however, with the option to watch the latest box office hit, people will think they're getting the whole package with their ticket.
Airlines around the world spend nearly $500 million on in-flight entertainment. Today, most airlines have staff designated to curate exactly which movies make the cut. United Airlines is even taking it a step further, giving all of its plans seatback screens. The airline's chief executive says the screens will make passengers choose United more often.
Plus, indie films and TV shows are popular in-flight options right now. It's one of the only times consumers have access and the time to check out these titles.
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