Air India signs with Thales to retrofit six B747-400s

Following on the heels of Air India's announcement that IFE makes their brand cool, news that they have signed with Thales to retrofit six Boeing 747-400s.

Air India has signed an agreement with M/s Thales for the installation of Top Series Advanced Passenger Entertainment System on six B747-400s, all owned by Air India.

With 10.4 display for First and Business Class seats and 8.4 display in Economy Class seats... Every screen will be a touch-screen and each seat will have a noise canceling module for high fidelity sound and lap-top power.

This is part of the refurbishment programme approved by the Board of Air India for the B747-400 which would include cabin interior upgradation, replacement of existing Economy Class seats with new seats, providing the latest in-flight entertainment system with audio and video on demand, internet and phone facility for all passengers including personal monitors, improvement in cabin lighting and replacement and upgradation of existing galleys and toilets.

Full article here. Most interesting is that all seats, including coach, will have laptop power plugs. Is this a new trend to put in-flight entertainment in the hands and responsibility of the passenger?

Update September 27th, 2005 - Thales TopSeries spec sheet. Air India will be supported by Thales' TopEffects! media services group.

¶ 9:17 AM