Does United Airlines have some kind of power source to power electronics on international flights?

Question

I'm flying to Japan and I was wondering if there is any power source where I can plug an adaptor to power my ipod or laptop inside the airplane?

Someone told me there is a cigarette lighter type power source under the seats on the plane, but I wasn't sure it that was true or not.

Thanks.

Answer 1

It depends on which class you're in. Power ports are only available in First and Business classes. They are not available in Economy Plus or Economy. (This is true for their B747-400, 767-300 WW, and all 777-200 setups. I'm assuming you're on a 747 or 777, because they usually use those aircraft types on routes to Asia.)
As for the power port type, United uses EmPower®, which is the most widely-used power port type on airplanes today. You will need to buy an adapter. If your laptop already has a cigarette lighter-style adapter, "inexpensive device that will allow you to use your cigarette adapter with an EmPower port." (seatguru.com)

Answer 2

They used to have outlets on international flights. Most US carriers disabled them in economy class in the wake of 9/11. Some international carriers like JAL may still offer them. You would need a special adapter for it though.

Your best bet is to either call the United and ask about your specific flight, or check www.seatguru.com. You can look up the type of aircraft you will be flying and it will tell you what amenities are available.


Good luck!

Answer 3

If you are flying business class or better, you should have no problem - 90% of the international flights I've been have the cigarette lighter power source. Another option is the chargeable portable power source - you can plug into it once your batteries start to fade. Check out Brookstone or Sharper Image.

Answer 4

They're not all saucers. When I was younger I saw a cigar-shaped craft. Aliens? I don't know but I couldn't identify what it was (still can't) so it's a UFO =) And who's are we to speculate on what power source is used if they indeed exist? There's so much we don't understand and so many new ideas (string theory, etc.) that it would be impossible to guess. I must say that I do get a kick out of the people who haven't seen anything odd so they're certain they don't exist. I wonder how many of them attend church but have never seen God -- just a thought =)

Answer 5

There is a plug on SOME airplanes, but not all. If you are sure your airplane will have one, you should look into getting the adapter to plug in your Lighter style plug.

CHeck here:
http://www.bixnet.com/airinpowconf.html