United Airlines will equip its flight attendants with Apple’s iPhone 6 Plus, putting essential safety and service information directly in their hands to improve on-board service and passenger support.
Distribution to more than 23,000 mainline flight attendants is scheduled to begin in the second quarter of 2015. The devices will initially support most on-board retail transactions and provide secure access to company email, united.com, the airline’s intranet, and digital policy and procedure manuals.
Planned future enhancements include replacing printed safety manuals with electronic versions on the iPhones, enabling real-time reporting and faster follow-up on cabin maintenance and repair issues, and adding a suite of customer-focused tools to enhance the passenger experience.
This move aims to streamline operations, reduce reliance on paper documentation and manual processes, and give flight attendants up-to-date resources to respond quickly to customer needs and safety requirements.
By leveraging mobile technology, United seeks to increase efficiency in routine tasks such as retail transactions and communications, while laying the groundwork for expanded capabilities that support cabin safety, maintenance tracking, and personalized customer service.
Overall, the deployment of iPhone 6 Plus devices reflects a broader industry trend toward digital tools that improve operational responsiveness and the quality of in-flight service, helping crew members stay informed and connected throughout their duties.