Sorry, Domestic Passengers...

United Airlines introduced a new feature Tuesday the Chicago-based carrier hopes will ease passenger frustrations a bit, at least for its high-ticket customers -- iPod and iPhone connectivity to its inflight enterntainment system.

Similar to links already seen in several automobile and home entertainment systems, the connectivity enables passengers to play their individual content on a 15.4-inch personal television, all while the iPod or iPhone charges. The first aircraft with iPod and iPhone connectivity, a Boeing 767-300, took off Monday evening from Washington, DC to Zurich as United 936.

"Our guests may now watch or listen to what they want, when they want with programming they choose," says Graham Atkinson, United Airlines - executive vice president and Chief Customer Officer. "United will continue to provide services and technology that makes our customers' travel experiences more relaxed and enjoyable."

Well, not for all United passengers. International fliers (who, coincidentally, don't have to shell out the $15 checked luggage fee) will be the first to benefit from the new technology... which will be limited to the carrier's widebody fleet, and will only be seen in first class and business class. The systems will be retrofitted to the airline's Boeing 767s and 777s over the next two years.

Through a cable that supports iPod and iPhone via the 30-pin connector, customers may watch and enjoy their personal content on United's in-flight entertainment system. Technology for the connectivity was developed by Panasonic Avionics Corporation.

FMI: www.united.com