Low-cost airline JetBlue Airways Corp. announced Tuesday a partnership with search giant Google that will allow customers to map the routes of their flight using the familiar Google Maps interface on the plane's seatback televisions. The moving map feature will be located on channel 13 of JetBlue's in-seat satellite television system.
"We're constantly looking for ways to enhance our customers' in-flight experience," said Brett Muney, Manager Product Development for JetBlue. "With the addition of Google's advanced mapping technology, our customers can enjoy a seat with a view – tracking their flight's altitude, speed and location on the way to their destination. We look forward to future product developments with Google as we continue to innovate our in-flight entertainment options and other products."
Passenger can also refer family and friends to the JetBlue Web site, where they can track flights live, including the flight's estimated departure and arrival times, using Google's technology online.
JetBlue is also running a contest encouraging customers to submit their favorite photo taken from the window of any JetBlue flight scheduled between June 5 and September 3 and JetBlue will then post them to a Google Maps mash-up, where customers can vote on their favorite shots at the end of the summer. Based on customer votes, the top 10 photographers will earn two free round-trip tickets to and from anywhere JetBlue flies.