XL Airways to Use MEZZ's "Cost-Neutral" IFE Service

XL Airways, a U.K. charter operator, has launched what is described as a unique "cost-neutral" IFE (in flight entertainment) system from MEZZO.

According to Martin Cunnison, MEZZO's executive director, "cost neutral" means that revenues generated for an airline from rentals of its portable IFE units are able to offset the cost of providing the service in both premium and economy cabins.

In XL's case, the airline will completely outsource its IFE needs to MEZZO, including the system's hardware, media content, ground handling, and communications with crews and customers. XL made its decision following a trial phase that evaluated passenger's use of rented portable IFE units on aircraft where an existing "main-screen" IFE product already exists.

The new service will be available on XL's long haul fleet of 767s and 747s routing from Manchester and London Gatwick, where it will be available as a complimentary service in first class cabins, and available for a nominal rental fee in economy class cabins. 07-18-2007.