Aircraft tracking maps are one of the most popular in-flight entertainment features among passengers despite the fact that their appearance has changed little over time. But things may be changing.

Rockwell Collins announced yesterday that its Airshow Moving Map for airlines is now available on HTML5 web browsers for smartphones and laptops, without the need to download any app.

Offered as part of the company’s PAVES wireless in-flight entertainment system, the browser-compatible version of Airshow Mobile features an interactive 2-D worldwide map that includes high-focus city and airport details, with support for six default languages. Rockwell Collins says airlines will be able to customize the appearance of the moving-map application to match their brand.

“What we want to do is provide the services that are timely, relevant and add value for passengers.” – Duncan Jackson, FlightPath3D

FlightPath3D, a product developed by California-based Betria Interactive, positions itself as an immersive in-flight experience for passengers with ancillary revenue potential for airlines. Speaking during an APEX EXPO Education Day session, FlightPath3D’s president, Duncan Jackson, said, “What we want to do is provide the services that are timely, relevant and add value for passengers.”

One way Betria provides these services is through a partnership with a tour company that operates bus routes in San Francisco. Together they created a virtual tour of the city, with the aim of enticing passengers to book the real thing. “If they book [the tour], that’s wher the ancillary revenue comes for airlines,” says Jackson. “If they don’t, the airline has just provided them with a virtual tour of a city that was value added and a great experience.”