BBC World to supply news to China Airlines flights

BBC World, the BBC's international 24-hour news and information channel, has signed an agreement to supply bilingual news for broadcast on China Airlines flights.

From 1 June 2003, BBC World news will provide passengers with the most up-to-date bulletins from the BBC newsroom, the first time an airline has delivered news with both English and Japanese soundtracks.

Bill Mould, Head of Travel Distribution, BBC World, says: "More than ever in these changing times, our viewers want to stay in touch while they're on the move and this fits in with our strategy to be a major player in the world's travel business. This agreement means China Airlines' passengers now benefit from BBC World's up-to-date, accurate and impartial news bulletins during flights."

Philip Wei, President, China Airlines, adds: "We are pleased to announce our collaboration with BBC World, which will enhance our onboard news service and keep our passengers - many of them Japanese speakers - informed about the latest developments in Taiwan and internationally."