Flight Entertainment Fault

[johnnort]

With the current great reclining seat debate another question rears its head. Is there any recourse for compensation when there is a fault with the entertainment system built into the back of seats? Very often the sound does not work, even with the changing of headphones, and occasionally the visual monitor remains inactive. Like with the reclining seat, which I never recline in flight, one is paying for this facility!

[craigt3365]

I've never been given anything for free when this doesn't work. Several times the screen in front of me didn't work and a few times the entire system was broken. At least a free drink would have been nice! LOL

I now bring the tablet and fill it up with a few movies.

[bubba]

Back when UA were doing BKK-NRT, I was in business class and found that my video display was not working. The FA tried to reset it without success, then apologised and handed me a coupon for 15,000 frequent flyer miles. As I bring my own, I rarely use the in-seat entertainment anyway, so I thought that was a nice touch.

[dddave]

Usually, they will offer to move you to another seat if they have one available. I have never been offered any kind of compensation in economy class if the IFE fails.

[Fab5BKK]

It doesn't harm to contact the airline's Customer Service Centre and go up to the CEO if needed.

[CNXBKKMAN]

The IFE is provided as a free of charge complimentary service on most airlines. If it doesn't work it's bad luck. If you have a first or business ticket they will probably give you freq flyer miles after you write in and complain. If you have an economy ticket you will receive an apology only.

[dabhand]

A few years back I was travelling on BA from Mumbai to LHR. The IFE for all passengers was not working and the cabin staff distributed a standard form regretting the problem and offering 10,000 airmiles for those on the FF programme. Don't think any compensation was offered to those without FF numbers.

I would guess that if individual passenger problems could not be resolved on board, e.g. by moving seats, similar compensation would be offered. It pays to be with the programme!!

[NanLaew]

One is paying for carriage ONLY. The 'bells and whistles' are free and/or optional regardless if they are working or otherwise.

[bubba]

I just happened to recall another instance where the IFE was not working at my seat. This one was on Emirates, in business class. I mentioned it to the FA, she said "one moment" and then came back and led me to a new seat - in first class. That was even with a half-full business class cabin on an A380.

My hat's off to EK for consistently offering excellent service.

[Robert24]

I just happened to recall another instance where the IFE was not working at my seat. This one was on Emirates, in business class. I mentioned it to the FA, she said "one moment" and then came back and led me to a new seat - in first class. That was even with a half-full business class cabin on an A380.

My hat's off to EK for consistently offering excellent service.

Yes Emirates is a good airline and a good example of good service.

Personally if they don't bother helping you with it during the flight and not give you compensation, then just don't use this airline anymore. Any good quality airline will do something similar to the Emirates example.

[ldnguy]

I don't think you're paying for the entertainment. It's probably classed as a free extra, so if it doesn't work you're not out of pocket. I doubt you'd be compensated because it's not really an issue. This is a sign of compensation culture gone mad, with people expecting to be compensated for every little thing. Read the terms and conditions you agreed to, as that will have the answer.