SriLankan Airlines became the first airline to offer BBC News, AFP Sports and AccuWeather with live updates while in flight on the latest Thales Avant System, giving passengers real-time information on news, sports and weather around the world.

SriLankan Airlines Head of Service Delivery Chanaka Olagama said, “We, at SriLankan Airlines, are constantly seeking new and innovative ways to better serve our customers. The introduction of these three popular features is just one of many enhancements introduced to our airline product, both in the air and on the ground.”

While BBC News and AFP Sports keep passengers up-to-date on the latest happenings and scores, they can also obtain the current and five-day weather forecasts from AccuWeather for 50 selected cities, all updated via satellite communications all within reach on their individual screens.

The latest Thales Avant in-flight entertainment system on the airline’s fleet of brand-new Airbus A330-300 aircraft feature some of the largest screens, 15.4 inch screens in Business Class and 11-inch screens in Economy presenting 120 movies, the latest in blockbusters from Hollywood to Bollywood, a collection of all time classics, favourites and movies in all languages from within our route network, over 50 TV channels, an extensive library of audio CDs and radio channels including games for all age groups. We have also ensured our young customers are kept occupied and delighted thought out the flight with an extensive selection of movies and TV programmes specially selected for them including those favourite cartoon characters.

The new A330-300s also come with the latest Zodiac Z300 seats with more knee room, articulated seat pans for that added recline and enhanced living space. All our passengers have access to in-seat power and USB ports at every seat, whether in Business Class or Economy to ensure their mobile phones and smart devices are kept fully changed prior to disembarkation. Passengers also enjoy special offers on Wi-Fi connectivity while in flight, paid for by scratch cards purchased on board or credit cards. Call loved ones or SMS friends with the use of mobile connectivity billed through their mobile operators. “If it works abroad it works on board”. Standard roaming charges of their service provider apply.

The famous Sri Lankan sunrise from the east to the sunset in the west is simulated by the mood lighting on board and include 10 lighting scenarios helping the passengers to dine in perfect lighting or rest and relax as they wish. For those in our premium Business Class cabin have the added feature of a starry sky, come bed time.

Sri Lanka’s award-winning airline now serves 94 destinations in 44 countries around the world. It is a member of the prestigious global airline alliance oneworld.