If you’re flying on Emirates or easyJet planes this summer, you could be able to learn the local lingo while flying to your destination.
It’s thanks to a new ‘Learn-as-you-Fly’ scheme being launched by Britain’s biggest language company, uTalk. The company, which already offers customers 136 different languages, has teamed up with two of the world’s top airlines, Emirates and easyJet, and is also in talks with others.
Videos and taster demos are being installed in hundreds of planes, with passengers being given free access to uTalk’s language learning on headrest screens in front of them.
The deal with the world’s largest international airline, Emirates, means language learning videos will be available fleet-wide on its entertainment system, ice. Customers across the airline’s six-continent network will be able to use the package.
easyJet travellers, including British families flying to their summer holidays on selected flights across Europe, will be able to access the inflight entertainment system and uTalk’s 136 languages from their own phone, tablet or computer.
On hand: Use you own mobile or tablet to access app on easyJet flights
Richard Howeson, chairman of uTalk, said: “In-flight learning is a great idea because it means that, with very little effort, passengers can learn enough to order their first drinks or negotiate transport, all by the time their plane lands.
“Even better, just by speaking a few words in the local lingo, you start to become more than a tourist. And, because we always use native speakers on the uTalk app, you’re learning to speak like the locals from the locals.
“It’s not just British flyers who will benefit from learning in the sky. Emirates, who currently offer video learning with uTalk in 15 different languages for English speakers, will also soon be catering for Arabic, Spanish, Mandarin and German speakers. Passengers flying with selected easyJet flights will get the whole works: a choice of 136 different languages to learn, all available to access on their own device from the comfort of their plane seat.”
Once holidaymakers arrive at their resort, they will also be able to continue their language learning by logging on to the new, easy-to-use, multi-platform uTalk app using their mobile devices.
Sands like fun: Continue to learn your chosen language on the beach
