Emirates Debuts First Airbus A350-900 with Thales’ AVANT Up Inflight Entertainment System
Emirates Airlines has officially launched its first Airbus A350-900, marking a significant milestone with the introduction of Thales’ cutting-edge AVANT Up inflight entertainment (IFE) system. This next-generation system powers Emirates’ signature ‘ice’ IFE platform, elevating the flying experience with state-of-the-art technology.
The inaugural flight, which took place on January 3, 2025, traveled from Dubai to Edinburgh, Scotland, and showcased the advanced features of the AVANT Up system. The aircraft is the first of 65 A350-900s to be equipped with this next-generation IFE technology.
Next-Generation Features
The AVANT Up system offers an array of groundbreaking features, including:
- 4K HDR Touchscreens: Delivering the highest picture quality available on any aircraft.
- 60W USB-C Fast Charging: Enabling passengers to charge devices efficiently during flights.
- Dual Bluetooth Pairing: Allowing passengers to connect two Bluetooth devices simultaneously.
- Enhanced Navigation: Ultra-responsive touchscreens for seamless browsing and usability.
Passengers will enjoy over 30 new features on the ‘ice’ system, with additional updates planned in the coming months.
A New Standard in Inflight Entertainment
This partnership between Emirates and Thales underscores their shared commitment to redefining the customer experience. With the AVANT Up system, Emirates continues to lead the industry in providing premium inflight entertainment options for travelers.
Commenting on the milestone, Emirates emphasized its focus on innovation, stating:
"Our collaboration with Thales has brought a new level of sophistication to the flying experience, aligning with our mission to offer the best for our passengers. The AVANT Up system represents a new era of inflight entertainment."
The Emirates A350-900 promises a groundbreaking travel experience, blending cutting-edge technology with the airline’s renowned luxury service.
