Delta’s popular seatback card is getting an upgrade – here’s why

A popular in-flight activity is becoming increasingly accessible.

Delta Air Lines recently announced that the in-flight map will soon have new features to make it more accessible to visually impaired passengers.

The latest version of the map will include a special accessibility mode with high-contrast colors such as a black, white and gray option, making it easier to track a flight’s progress, the airline shared in a after. The main version of the map will still be the traditional satellite.

The accessible option will also include larger text and buttons, have additional zoom controls, and support people who are color blind. Delta says it plans to launch a voice narration feature that uses artificial intelligence.

“We are proud to be the first airline to launch this technology, setting the standard for inclusive travel experiences across the industry,” said Delta’s Managing Director Customer Experience – In-Flight Entertainment, Delta Studio and Wi-Fi, Ekrem Dimbiloglu. after.

In preparation for the launch of the new accessibility features, Delta invited members of the airline’s Disability Advisory Board and Guiding Eyes for the Blind to demonstrate and evaluate the new features.

The in-flight card has become a popular standalone entertainment option for passengers. Delta shares that 45 percent of passengers interact with the map each month, and 20 percent of those customers exclusively view the map throughout the entire flight. The map has multiple viewing options, allowing users to see the duration of the flight remaining, where the aircraft is currently flying and even a virtual view of what is happening from the cockpit window.

The airline’s in-flight system, called Delta Studio, offers entertainment on more than 165,000 seatback screens for passengers to view. This includes over 300 movies, television shows and more.

Airlines have increased accessibility options for passengers. For example, United Airlines recently changed its policy booking policy to reduce additional costs for passengers with wheelchairs.