United Airlines’ Shift to Digital: The End of Hemispheres Magazine
United Airlines has announced a significant change to its in-flight experience starting this fall. The airline will be discontinuing the print version of its long-standing in-flight magazine, Hemispheres, which has been a staple on United flights since 1992. Instead, United will be transitioning to a digital version of the magazine, available for free to passengers.
The Evolution of In-Flight Reading Experience
In recent years, the trend towards digital media has been evident in various industries, and the airline industry is no exception. United’s decision to move away from a printed magazine to a digital format aligns with the broader shift towards digital content consumption. This move allows United to reach a wider audience, deliver personalized content, and tell richer stories. Additionally, the digital format offers features such as on-screen reading, enlarged text, and soon, language translation.
The Impact on Fuel Efficiency
The decision to discontinue the print version of Hemispheres was not solely driven by a shift to digital; it also had practical considerations. Ink, the publisher of Hemispheres, had to take into account the weight of the magazine and its impact on fuel costs. In fact, United had previously made changes to the paper format of its in-flight magazines in 2018 to reduce weight. By shaving off just one ounce from each product, the airline was able to save $300,000 annually in fuel costs. Every ounce saved translates to less fuel burned during flights, contributing to overall fuel efficiency.
Industry Trends and Competition
United’s decision to go digital with Hemispheres puts it in line with other airlines that have made similar moves. Delta Air Lines discontinued its Sky magazine in 2020, while Southwest Airlines ceased publication of its magazine at the onset of the pandemic. American Airlines also announced the closure of its long-standing magazine, American Way, in 2021. These changes reflect a broader shift in the industry towards digital content delivery and cost-saving measures.
— Reported by CBS News Senior Traffic Correspondent Kris Van Cleave
