Alaska Airlines Entertainment Review

Embarking on an Alaska Airlines flight soon and wondering how you'll keep entertained at 35,000 feet? In today's skies, in-flight entertainment has evolved beyond simple seatback screens. This comprehensive Alaska Airlines Entertainment Review will guide you through all the options available, ensuring you're well-prepared for a journey filled with movies, shows, and connectivity.

Whether you're a seasoned flyer or planning your first trip with Alaska, understanding their entertainment offerings can significantly enhance your travel experience. So, grab your favorite device, and let's dive into what Alaska Airlines has in store for your next flight!

Alaska Airlines' Approach to In-Flight Entertainment

Alaska Airlines has taken a modern, device-centric approach to in-flight entertainment, moving away from traditional seatback screens on most of their fleet. Instead, they empower you to use your own smartphone, tablet, or laptop to access a wide array of content. This strategy aims to provide a more personalized and flexible experience, allowing you to enjoy entertainment on a screen you're already comfortable with.

Accessing Your In-Flight Entertainment: Alaska Beyond Entertainment

Alaska Airlines' primary entertainment system is called Alaska Beyond Entertainment. It's designed for streaming directly to your personal electronic devices. So, how do you tap into this world of movies and shows?

Connecting to Alaska WiFi for Entertainment

The process is straightforward:

Enable Airplane Mode: As soon as you're onboard, switch your device to airplane mode.
Connect to AlaskaWiFi: Navigate to your device's Wi-Fi settings and connect to the "AlaskaWiFi" network.
Launch Your Browser: Open your web browser (like Chrome, Safari, or Firefox) and visit AlaskaWiFi.com.
Browse and Enjoy: From this portal, you can access the full library of free movies and TV shows. You typically won't need a specific app to watch the content, as it streams directly through your browser.

This system ensures that you can start enjoying your chosen entertainment once the aircraft reaches an altitude of 10,000 feet.

What About Seatback Screens?

It's a common question: Does Alaska Airlines have seatback screens? For the most part, no. Alaska Airlines has opted not to install seatback screens across the majority of its fleet. This decision helps reduce weight and associated costs, which can contribute to more cost-effective fares. While some newer aircraft might feature seatback screens, it's not the standard. Therefore, bringing your own device is essential for accessing their entertainment offerings.

The Content Library: Movies, TV, and More

So, what can you expect to watch on your Alaska Airlines in-flight entertainment journey? Alaska Airlines boasts a robust and complimentary selection, ensuring there's something for nearly every taste.

Movies: You'll find a substantial collection of movies, often exceeding 800 to 1000 titles. This includes a mix of new releases, classic films, and family-friendly options across various genres.
TV Shows: Beyond movies, there's also an extensive library of TV episodes and series to binge-watch.
Live TV (Limited): Some flights may even offer live TV streams for news or sporting events, accessible directly from your device.
Partnerships: Alaska Airlines also partners with content providers like HGTV, Food Network, and others to offer additional entertainment.

Whether you're in the mood for an action-packed blockbuster, a heartwarming drama, or a captivating documentary, the Alaska Airlines entertainment review indicates a solid selection to keep you occupied.

Staying Connected: Alaska Airlines Wi-Fi

Beyond entertainment, staying connected is often a priority for travelers. Alaska Airlines offers Wi-Fi services that cater to various needs.

Wi-Fi Availability and Cost

Alaska Airlines has largely simplified its Wi-Fi pricing. On most flights equipped with streaming-fast satellite Wi-Fi, you can expect a flat rate of just $8 for the entire flight, regardless of its length. This satellite Wi-Fi is designed to be fast enough for streaming your own content from services like Netflix or Hulu, and for general browsing and chatting.

However, it's worth noting that some older aircraft, particularly certain Boeing 737-700s, might have variable Wi-Fi pricing that could go up to $24.99 for basic service. Also, Wi-Fi may not be available on all routes, such as those flying over the Arctic Circle or on specific aircraft like Q400 turboprops.

Free Messaging and Other Perks

Even if you don't purchase full Wi-Fi access, Alaska Airlines offers complimentary messaging on popular apps like WhatsApp and iMessage, allowing you to stay in touch with friends and family during your flight.

For eligible T-Mobile customers, there's an added bonus: you may qualify for free in-flight Wi-Fi on Alaska Airlines flights, with benefits varying based on your specific T-Mobile plan. Additionally, if you're an Alaska Airlines Visa credit card holder, you can receive a 20% statement credit on all in-flight purchases, including Wi-Fi.

Tips for Maximizing Your Alaska Airlines Entertainment Experience

To ensure your flight is as entertaining and comfortable as possible, consider these practical tips:

Charge Your Devices: Since entertainment streams to your personal devices, make sure your smartphone, tablet, or laptop is fully charged before boarding. While Alaska Airlines does provide USB and standard power outlets at each seat on many planes, it's always best to start with a full battery.
Download Content Ahead: For ultimate peace of mind, download some of your favorite movies, TV shows, or podcasts to your device before your flight. This ensures you have entertainment even if there are Wi-Fi interruptions or if you prefer not to rely on the airline's streaming service.
Bring Your Own Headphones: Alaska Airlines does not provide free headphones. To enjoy the audio from your movies and shows, remember to pack your own wired or wireless headphones. They can be purchased for a small fee onboard if you forget.
Consider Wi-Fi Needs: Decide if you need full Wi-Fi access for browsing or streaming your own services, or if the free in-flight entertainment and messaging are sufficient. The $8 flat rate for satellite Wi-Fi is a good value if you need constant connectivity.
Check Aircraft Type: While most mainline aircraft offer the streaming entertainment, smaller regional jets or specific routes might have different offerings. A quick check of your flight details can help set expectations.

Conclusion

Alaska Airlines offers a robust and modern approach to in-flight entertainment, focusing on streaming a wide selection of free movies and TV shows directly to your personal devices. While the absence of universal seatback screens means you'll need your own gadget, the presence of power outlets and affordable, flat-rate Wi-Fi (with free messaging) makes for a well-rounded and connected travel experience.

By planning ahead and bringing your essential devices and headphones, you can easily turn your Alaska Airlines flight into your personal cinema or mobile office.

What are your thoughts on Alaska Airlines' entertainment system? Have you tried Alaska Beyond Entertainment? Share your experiences in the comments below!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Does Alaska Airlines have free movies?

Yes, Alaska Airlines offers a complimentary in-flight entertainment system called Alaska Beyond Entertainment, which provides access to over 800 to 1000 free movies and TV shows that you can stream to your personal device.

Do I need an app to watch movies on Alaska Airlines?

Generally, no. You can access Alaska Airlines' in-flight entertainment library by connecting to the "AlaskaWiFi" network on board and then visiting AlaskaWiFi.com in your device's web browser.

Is Wi-Fi free on Alaska Airlines?

While messaging apps like WhatsApp and iMessage are free, full Wi-Fi access for browsing and streaming typically costs a flat rate of $8 on most flights with satellite Wi-Fi. T-Mobile customers with eligible plans may receive complimentary Wi-Fi.

Does Alaska Airlines provide headphones?

No, Alaska Airlines does not provide free headphones. Passengers are encouraged to bring their own. Headphones can be purchased on board for a fee, typically around $3.