Inflight editor Alexander Preston summarises the latest happenings across IFEC and cabin technology.
As the German proverb states: “Charity sees the need, not the cause.” While many will chastise the aviation industry for its emissions record and contribution to climate change, many airlines have a proud record of giving back to communities.
At the end of November 2018, AirAsia marked its collaboration with (RED), the international organisation fighting to end AIDS in Southeast Asia by launching the first ever (RED) plane.
Now, working with New York-based Thai chef and (RED) ambassador Hong Thaimee, the airline has launched the INSPI(RED) burger, the latest addition to AirAsia’s in-flight Asean menu, Santan.
For every INSPI(RED) burger sold, 10% of sales will go to the Global Fund to support HIV/AIDS testing, counselling, treatment and prevention programmes in the Asean region.
AirAsia has also created a special line of co-branded (AirAsia)RED in-flight merchandise to spread the (RED) message, including a remix of the iconic AirAsia cap, an aircraft model for collectors and others, with US$2 from the sale of each item to be donated to the Global Fund.
Elsewhere, local non-profits in Hawaii will benefit throughout July as Hawaiian Airlines supports the island’s arts movement and environment. The initiative is part of the carrier’s Team Kokua Programme which gives back in a variety of ways including service volunteers, HawaiianMiles or cash donations.
One such organisation is the Hawaii International Film Festival (HIFF) which will celebrate and showcase Hawaiian filmmakers and locally produced short films on the airline’s IFE. This programme, which started in 2018, will be curated by HIFF and available for free, exclusively on over 120 Hawaiian Airlines flights across 22 destinations.
Guests on Hawaiian Airlines transpacific flights will have exclusive access to complimentary short films featuring authentic, local stories that capture the depth and richness of Hawaii’s culture.
So in the words of Dr. Seuss: “Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.”
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