Everyone who's been on a long flight knows the frustration of limited entertainment options - outdated movies, shows you've already seen, or content that just doesn't match your taste. The current in-flight entertainment systems haven't kept pace with how people consume media at home, where services like Netflix offer personalized, on-demand viewing.

Bringing Home Entertainment to the Skies

One way to address this gap could be through a partnership between airlines and Netflix. Instead of relying on stale pre-loaded content, passengers could access their personal Netflix accounts during flights. This might work through:

• Secure login via in-flight WiFi
• Temporary access codes provided by the airline
• Pre-loaded Netflix content on the plane's system

The system could let travelers pick up where they left off in their favorite shows, creating continuity between their ground and air experience. For those without accounts, airlines might offer limited access to select content.

Benefits for All Parties

This approach could create value across the board:

• Airlines could differentiate their service and potentially charge premium prices
• Netflix would gain engagement and exposure to potential new subscribers
• Passengers would enjoy entertainment that actually matches their preferences

The technical aspects would need solutions for bandwidth limitations through caching and pre-loading content. Starting with Netflix Originals would simplify licensing issues since they have global rights.

A Practical Path Forward

A pilot program could begin with one airline on select long-haul routes, testing the basic functionality before expanding. The minimum viable product might focus on allowing account logins while measuring usage patterns. Success could lead to added features like offline viewing options or integration with airline loyalty programs.

This concept builds on existing systems while addressing their limitations. Unlike current seatback entertainment with fixed content, it offers personalization. Compared to basic in-flight WiFi, it would optimize specifically for streaming video. The result could be entertainment that feels like home, even at 30,000 feet.