Alaska In Flight Entertainment Explained

Long flights can sometimes feel like an eternity, leaving you wondering how to pass the time. Will there be movies? Can you get online? If you're flying with Alaska Airlines, you're in luck! They've embraced a modern approach to keeping you entertained and connected. This comprehensive guide will explain everything you need to know about Alaska In Flight Entertainment Explained, ensuring you're ready to enjoy your journey from takeoff to touchdown.

No Seatback Screens? No Problem! Your Device is Your Entertainment Hub

Forget craning your neck to see a small screen on the seat in front of you. Alaska Airlines has opted for a more personalized and flexible entertainment experience: they don't typically feature seatback screens on their aircraft. Instead, your personal smartphone, tablet, or laptop becomes your entertainment center. This means you get to enjoy content on a device you're already comfortable with, often with a larger, clearer display than traditional seatback options.

How to Access Alaska's In-Flight Entertainment: A Step-by-Step Guide

Accessing the free movies and TV shows on your Alaska Airlines flight is straightforward. Here's how to get started:

1. Prepare Your Device: Ensure your device (smartphone, tablet, or laptop) is fully charged before your flight. While most planes offer USB and standard power outlets, it's always best to start with a full battery.
2. Enable Wi-Fi: Once you're onboard and the aircraft door is closed, put your device in airplane mode and turn on its Wi-Fi.
3. Connect to the Network: Look for the "AlaskaWiFi.com" network in your device's Wi-Fi settings and connect to it. On some older aircraft, you might see "gogoinflight."
4. Open Your Browser: Launch your preferred web browser (like Safari, Chrome, or Microsoft Edge) and navigate to AlaskaWiFi.com.
5. Start Watching: Once on the AlaskaWiFi.com portal, you'll find the option to access their extensive entertainment library. You don't need to purchase Wi-Fi access to enjoy the free movies and TV shows.

What's On Board? A World of Free Entertainment

Alaska Airlines offers a robust selection of complimentary in-flight entertainment designed to cater to diverse tastes. Their "Alaska Beyond Entertainment" system provides a vast library of content.

• Movies and TV Shows Galore: You'll find over 800 to 1000 free movies and TV episodes available for streaming. This includes a mix of new releases, timeless classics, family-friendly films, and various genres like comedy, drama, action, adventure, romance, and documentaries. They even feature content from partners like HGTV, Food Network, Rebel Girls, and the American Indian Film Institute.
• Live TV Options: On some flights, you can even tune into live TV, catching up on current news or sporting events right from your device.
• Beyond Video: While movies and TV dominate, the system also offers music and games to keep you engaged throughout your journey.

Staying Connected: Alaska Airlines Wi-Fi Options

Beyond entertainment, staying connected is often a priority for travelers. Alaska Airlines In Flight Entertainment Explained also covers their Wi-Fi services, which are available on most flights.

• Affordable Wi-Fi: On the majority of flights, you can purchase streaming-fast satellite Wi-Fi for a flat fee of just $8, regardless of the flight's length. This high-speed connection is often comparable to what you'd experience on the ground, allowing you to browse, chat, and even stream your own services. However, note that some older Boeing 737 aircraft might have "Basic Wi-Fi" which can cost up to $24.99 and doesn't support streaming.
• Free Texting: Need to send a quick message? Alaska Airlines offers free texting through iMessage, Facebook Messenger, and WhatsApp. This service is complimentary and doesn't require a Wi-Fi purchase. Keep in mind that SMS messages, photos, videos, and voice/video calls are typically not supported.
• Stream Your Own Content: If your flight is equipped with the "Streaming-Fast Wi-Fi," you can stream content from your personal subscriptions like Netflix, Hulu, or Spotify.
• T-Mobile Perks: Are you a T-Mobile customer? Depending on your plan (Magenta Max or Magenta), you might be eligible for complimentary Wi-Fi access on Alaska Airlines flights. This is a fantastic perk for frequent flyers!

Pro Tips for a Seamless Alaska In-Flight Entertainment Experience

To make the most of your Alaska Airlines in-flight entertainment, consider these actionable tips:

• Bring Your Own Headphones: Alaska Airlines does not provide free headphones. While you can purchase them for around $3, bringing your own wired or wireless pair ensures comfort and saves you money.
• Charge Up! As your personal device is your screen, ensure it's fully charged before boarding. While power outlets are generally available, they can sometimes be finicky or in high demand.
• Consider Downloading Content: If you have specific movies or shows you want to watch and don't want to rely on the onboard library or paid Wi-Fi for streaming your own services, download them to your device before your flight.
• Patience is Key: The Wi-Fi system might take a minute or two to boot up and connect, especially if it's the older "gogoinflight" network that activates after reaching 10,000 feet.
• Check for Wi-Fi Availability: While Wi-Fi is on most flights, some shorter routes or specific aircraft types (like certain 737-9 Max or Q400 planes) might not have it. Also, satellite Wi-Fi can experience brief interruptions or be unavailable above the Arctic Circle or over certain regions.

Conclusion

Alaska Airlines has embraced the digital age, transforming your personal device into a powerful in-flight entertainment hub. By understanding how to access their free movies and TV shows and navigating their Wi-Fi options, you can ensure your next flight is as enjoyable and productive as possible. So, pack your headphones, charge your devices, and get ready to settle in for a truly entertaining journey with Alaska Airlines!

What's your favorite way to stay entertained on a flight? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below!

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an app for Alaska Airlines in-flight entertainment?

No, you typically do not need a specific app to access Alaska Airlines' in-flight entertainment. You can stream movies and TV shows directly through your device's web browser by connecting to the "AlaskaWiFi.com" network and visiting AlaskaWiFi.com.

Does Alaska Airlines have seatback TVs?

Generally, no. Alaska Airlines has moved away from traditional seatback screens. Instead, they offer a streaming entertainment system that allows passengers to watch content on their own personal devices like smartphones, tablets, and laptops.

Can I stream Netflix or Hulu on Alaska Airlines flights?

Yes, on most flights equipped with Alaska Airlines' "streaming-fast satellite Wi-Fi" (which usually costs $8), you can stream content from your own subscriptions like Netflix, Hulu, or Spotify. However, this is not possible on aircraft with "Basic Wi-Fi."

Is Wi-Fi free on Alaska Airlines?

Free Wi-Fi is not standard for all passengers. However, Alaska Airlines does offer free texting via iMessage, Facebook Messenger, and WhatsApp. For full internet access, there's usually a flat fee of $8 on most flights. Eligible T-Mobile customers may receive complimentary Wi-Fi access.