Not that long ago, we learned that Delta Air Lines would be equipping more than 19,000 flight attendants with Windows Phone 8 devices – specifically the Lumia 820 – to run credit cards, perform seat upgrades, and more. Now, Delta Air Lines has revealed that more than 20,000 flight attendants will soon be equipped with the 6-inch Nokia Lumia 1520 phablet, powered by Windows Phone 8.1.
“Delta continues to invest in the latest tools and resources for our flight attendants to provide exceptional service to our 165 million annual customers,” said Joanne Smith, senior vice president of Delta’s In-Flight Service. “These state-of-the-art devices represent yet another example of the many technology innovations we’re developing, and will be essential as Delta continues to further personalize the on board experience.”
The 6-inch Lumia 1520 will provide electronic access to the large 500 page on-board manual carried by every flight attendant. This is expected to save more than $1 million annually in fuel and printing costs. On top of that, it allows flight attendants to have quick and easy access to the manual.
“The phablet is a great foundation for future software applications that, in time, will allow our flight attendants to readily access customer preferences, previous travel experiences with Delta and worldwide connectivity to the company, enabling them to provide the more tailored experience many customers have come to expect,” said Theresa Wise, senior vice president and chief information officer.
Powered by Windows Phone 8.1, the phablet will allow flight attendants to take customer meal orders, receive detailed information about their flight and provide information for personalized service, including customers’ frequent flyer status and potential need for special services during flight. Flight attendants are expected to receive the device by the end of the year.
Delta Air Lines is no stranger to Microsoft products, having confirmed that 11,000 pilots will be receiving the Surface 2 tablet in an attempt to go paperless.
