Google announced today that it has completely updated the Google Maps data on the touchscreens of airplane seats on Virgin America.
The maps will show viewers (almost) exactly where they’re at as they fly as usual, but it now features terrain view and new data showing elevation, mountains, etc. "In other words, it more closely matches what you’d actually see if you had cloud-penetrating eyesight and looked out the window from 35,000 feet," writes Google Product Marketing Manager Jesse Friedman.
"One of my favorite truisms is, ‘no matter where you go, there you are,’" says Friedman. "Call me sappy, but it’s a nice way to remember that every place on Earth has meaning, history and identity. But let’s face it: when you’re on an airplane, traveling over unknown lands at triple-digit speeds, it’s hard to get a sense of where you really are."
In addition to the new Google Maps data, Virgin America has also announced that it will be ordering 60 new planes, tripling its size. This means the airline will be traveling to new destinations.
Last winter, Google and Virgin America teamed up to offer passengers free wi-fi during the holidays.