Wizz Air, Immfly and gateretail have launched an integrated digital cabin ecosystem that brings together onboard retail, passenger and crew connectivity, and operational data in one platform.
The initiative marks a major step in Wizz Air’s digital transformation strategy and is designed to enhance the passenger experience, support crew efficiency, and create new opportunities for operational and commercial optimization.
The collaboration combines Immfly’s digital cabin technology, gateretail’s expertise in inflight retail and passenger buying behaviour, and the Equilux-Iridium connectivity solution to create a more connected and intuitive onboard experience across Wizz Air’s fleet.
At the centre of the programme are two key developments: the full fleet rollout of Bluetooth-enabled in-seat ordering, and a six-month proof of concept for low-bandwidth connectivity on five UK-based aircraft.
Following months of development and testing, Wizz Air and Immfly have now deployed Bluetooth-enabled in-seat ordering across the airline’s fleet of more than 260 Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft. Passengers who download the Wizz Air app before flying can browse and purchase food, beverages and boutique items directly from their personal devices, even without internet access. Orders are transmitted to cabin crew via Bluetooth, helping reduce wait times, improve service flow and create a more seamless retail experience onboard.
The solution is powered by Immfly’s unified retail and cabin digitalisation ecosystem and integrated with gateretail’s inflight retail systems and commercial know-how. Together, the partners aim to translate onboard demand into a smarter and more effective retail journey.
In parallel, Wizz Air and Immfly have launched a new low-bandwidth connectivity trial powered by Immfly’s proprietary Equilux server and Iridium’s global satellite network. The proof of concept will run for six months on five aircraft in the UK, with results expected in late summer.
The trial will enable a range of onboard services, including wireless inflight entertainment purchases, messaging packages, in-seat ordering, live payment authorisation, and real-time access to flight information, moving maps and destination content.
Beyond passenger-facing features, the programme also introduces cockpit application integration, enabling real-time data sharing and decision-support tools. This is expected to support improved route planning, fuel optimisation and broader cost-saving opportunities, embedding operational efficiencies more directly into day-to-day flying.
Jose Lirio, VP at gateretail, said: “In-seat ordering by Bluetooth represents an important breakthrough for both passengers and airline partners. It gives passengers a more seamless way to shop the onboard offer, while giving crew real-time visibility to support efficient fulfilment. Backed by gateretail’s expertise in passenger behaviour and retail technology, it is designed to strengthen engagement and unlock greater revenue potential.”
Fernando Guinea, President of Immfly, said: “This partnership marks a major step forward in bringing the digital cabin to life. With Immfly’s unified digital ecosystem at the core, combining retail, connectivity and operational data, we are enabling Wizz Air to elevate every aspect of the onboard experience.”
Ian Malin, Chief Commercial Officer at Wizz Air, added: “This launch is about rethinking what the onboard experience looks like in a low-cost environment. We are investing in smart, scalable technology that gives customers more control and more choice, while helping our crews deliver a faster, more seamless service.”
About gategroup
gategroup is a leading global provider of airline catering, retail-on-board, and hospitality products and services. Headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland, the company serves millions of passengers through a network of nearly 200 locations in more than 60 countries. By leveraging innovation and operational expertise, gategroup partners with the world’s leading airlines to create exceptional travel experiences. Learn more at www.gategroup.com