Factual
Air China launches live TV streaming in flights
NEW DELHI: Air China has launched its first in-flight live television broadcast by streaming pictures showing Beijing’s huge military parade that marked the 70th anniversary of the end of the Second World War.
The live broadcast was shown on the Air China aircraft’s TV screens as well as on passengers’ mobiles.
Passengers were able to watch the live broadcast thanks to the satellite TV service provided on the flight, or on their own mobile devices, including tablets and smart phones, which were connected to the plane’s entertainment system, China News Service reported.
Air China said it hoped to mark the occasion with live streaming of the parade to symbolise the “end of an era” when Chinese airlines were unable to broadcast live television.
In partnership with the China’s civil aviation authority, government broadcasting authorities and satellite networks, Air China said it has carried out research and testing for more than a year before making the breakthrough with its in-flight broadcast equipment.
The airline said that in the future passengers would be able to access state TV broadcasts and a variety of provincial-level TV shows on flights.
Many airlines abroad, including those in Europe and the US, have been offering live TV broadcasts streamed via satellite TV, satellite and in-flight Wi-fi for several years.
MUMBAI: India’s most famous hot seat is about to welcome an unlikely first-timer. For the first time on Hindi general entertainment television, industrialist Kumar Mangalam Birla will appear on Kaun Banega Crorepati, the iconic quiz show hosted by Amitabh Bachchan.
The special episode marks a rare meeting point of boardroom heft and prime-time television, bringing one of India’s most influential business leaders face to face with the country’s most enduring screen legend. It is a crossover that blends intellect, leadership and popular culture, all under KBC’s familiar spotlight.
Birla’s appearance dovetails neatly with the show’s current theme, Jahaan Akal Hai, Wahan Akad Hai, which celebrates the confidence that comes from clarity of thought and knowledge. His presence lends weight to the idea that sharp thinking and conviction are as vital in life as they are in the quiz chair.
In a thoughtful conversation with Bachchan, Birla shared an upbeat view of India’s economic journey, pointing to the nation’s rapid growth and the scale of opportunity opening up across industries and communities. He spoke of momentum, ambition and a future shaped by enterprise and ideas.
The episode is not all serious talk. In lighter moments, Birla confessed his long-standing admiration for Bachchan, calling him his favourite actor and admitting to a touch of nervousness at answering questions in front of the Shahenshah himself. The candour adds a human touch to a man more often seen in headlines than on television sets.
The special episode airs on Monday, 29 December at 9.00 pm on Sony Entertainment Television and Sony LIV.
