[Satellite TODAY 09-28-11] Turkish Airlines said it would become the first commercial carrier to launch and offer live, inflight television on its Trans-Atlantic flights, according to a Sept. 27 announcement.

   Turkish Airlines also will introduce WiFi Internet access to its passengers and debut live television and connectivity via a seatback portal. The company said these capabilities are a first for commercial intercontinental flights.

   The service is supported by the Planet IFE Platform, a global communication suite system developed by Panasonic Avionics. The system aims to provide wireless Wi-Fi Internet after full testing and certification.

   “Live television on intercontinental flights is a first and will feature a variety of programming including uninterrupted access to BBC World, BBC Arabic and Euronews channels with sport channels to soon be added. Seats are also equipped with in-seat power that allows charging of mobile devices as well as continuous Internet connectivity,” the airline said in a statement.

   Turkish Airlines received the first B777-300ER equipped with the GCS system from the Boeing Sept. 23. Turkish Airlines also said it plans to activate this system on 11 additional Boeing 777-300ER and 10 Airbus A330-300 aircraft in its fleet in the near future.