Workshop 1, Topic 3: IFC Deep Dive – Portal or Not: Different Angles on a Seamless Passenger IFC Journey

This session, ‘Portal or Not,’ is designed to address a pivotal question in the realm of In-Flight Connectivity – should we opt for dedicated portals or direct internet access for passengers?

This debate is more than just a technical choice; it’s about shaping passenger experiences, aligning with airline strategies, and potentially redefining the in-flight digital landscape. Our discussion will start with understanding the advantages and disadvantages of using portals. We will examine user interface design, content management, customization capabilities, and how these factors influence passenger satisfaction.

Then, we’ll contrast this with the direct access model, discussing its implications for user freedom, ease of use, and how it caters to diverse passenger preferences. But our journey does not stop there. We will also explore alternative approaches and innovative solutions. How can emerging technologies and evolving passenger expectations guide us towards a more personalized and flexible IFC experience?

APEX IFEC Workshop Format

Workshop 1: IFC Deep Dive

Topic 3: Portal or Not: Different Angles on a Seamless In-Flight Connectivity (IFC) Journey

Total Duration: 45 Minutes
*Timing subject to change following further details established by moderator.

  1. Initial Roundtable Discussion (10 Minutes)
    • Time Allotted: 0:00 – 0:10
    • Table Captain initiates a discussion on current approaches in In-Flight Connectivity (IFC), focusing on the debate between using dedicated portals and direct internet access.
    • Participants are invited to share their experiences or views on the effectiveness of portals in enhancing the IFC experience compared to a direct access approach.
  2. Focused Discussion – Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Portals in IFC (15 Minutes)
    • Time Allotted: 0:10 – 0:25
    • Table Captain guides the conversation to explore the pros and cons of utilizing portals for in-flight internet access.
      • Discussing aspects such as user interface design, content management, and customization capabilities of portals.
      • Contrasting with the direct access model in terms of user freedom, ease of use, and catering to diverse passenger preferences.
    • Each participant contributes their perspective on how these models impact the passenger’s digital experience during the flight.
  3. Evaluating Alternative Approaches and Innovative Solutions (15 Minutes)
    • Time Allotted: 0:25 – 0:40
    • Focus shifts to alternative methods and innovative trends in delivering a seamless IFC journey.
      • Investigating emerging technologies and evolving passenger expectations.
      • Considering the potential for blending different models to create a more personalized and flexible IFC experience.
    • Collaborative effort to identify potential innovations and improvements in how IFC is provided onboard.
  4. Conclusion and Next Steps (5 Minutes)
    • Time Allotted: 0:40 – 0:45
    • Table Captain synthesizes the key points of the discussion, highlighting the group’s collective insights on the use of portals versus direct access in IFC.
    • Scribe compiles a succinct summary of the discussion for submission or future reference.

Brief dialogue on how these findings might influence airline IFC strategies and enhance passenger satisfaction.