The Barbie movie is proving a big hit in summer 2023, and it is set to go sky high as inflight media agency, Spafax, has partnered with Mattel to introduce a branded Barbie channel for airline inflight entertainment systems (IFEs).
As part of this industry-first content deal between Mattel, the makers of Barbie, and Spafax, the content is now available to the airline market on various IFE platforms, including on seatback screens and passengers’ personal devices. The offer has already proved popular, with Qatar Airways, British Airways, Iberia Airlines and Aer Lingus having all added the branded Barbie channel.
Spanning a variety of Barbie-themed animated programming, including films, some highlights of the branded channel include movies like ‘Barbie Mermaid Power’, an underwater rescue mission by Malibu Barbie and friends, and ‘Barbie Dreamhouse Adventures’, a fun, heartwarming new series that spans at-home shenanigans and on-the-road adventures for Barbie and her crew.
“It’s an exciting moment for Mattel, as we continue our movement into being an IP-driven company with a full franchise approach. This deal with Spafax helps us expand our entertainment offering to consumers, meaning that wherever they are fans of our shows can enjoy the content they love,” said Alex Godfrey, VP of content distribution at Mattel.
It is worth mentioning the popularity of the Barbie franchise. Since her 1959 debut, Barbie has evolved into an international sensation, with over two-million Instagram fans and many entertainment titles. Some 151 million minutes have been spent on Barbie’s YouTube channel, and 18 billion minutes of fan-created content is created each year, testifying to her timeless charm.
