The in-flight entertainment system industry in the US is evolving rapidly, transforming the passenger experience aboard aircraft. Companies range from established technology firms to specialized startups, offering services such as streaming media, Wi-Fi connectivity, and interactive gaming. Trendy innovations like virtual reality are gaining traction, enhancing how travelers might enjoy their time aloft. Investment in this field is rising, spurred by increasing consumer demand for seamless connectivity and immersive entertainment options. As airlines seek to differentiate themselves, the focus on creating personalized and engaging experiences presents exciting opportunities for growth and technological advancements.

This article highlights 18 notable investors in the in-flight entertainment sector, ranging from venture capital firms to corporate giants. Headquartered mainly in key economic hubs like San Francisco, New York, and Arlington, these investment firms vary in size and specialties. Established from 1972 to 2023, they completed numerous deals in 2024, indicating a profound interest in enhancing passenger experiences. Each investor brings unique assets, promising to further elevate the aviation industry's entertainment offerings.

Top 18 in Flight Entertainment System Investors in the US

1. Y Combinator

• Website: ycombinator.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2005
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 802
• LinkedIn: y-combinator

Y Combinator is a prominent startup accelerator and venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2005. It provides funding and mentorship to early-stage technology companies, helping entrepreneurs launch and grow their businesses through structured programs and resources like the Startup School. Y Combinator has successfully launched over 4,000 startups, making it a key player in the technology startup ecosystem. Notably, Y Combinator has invested in companies like Wright Electric, which focuses on electric aircraft technology, and Exosonic, which is developing supersonic flight solutions. These investments indicate Y Combinator's interest in the aviation sector, which is closely related to in-flight entertainment systems, as advancements in aircraft technology can directly impact the passenger experience and entertainment options available during flights.

2. Intel Capital

• Website: intelcapital.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Santa Clara, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1991
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 23
• LinkedIn: intelcapital

Intel Capital is a venture capital firm based in Santa Clara, California, founded in 1991. It specializes in investing in early-stage technology companies, with a focus on areas such as AI, cloud computing, and semiconductor technologies. The firm provides funding, strategic support, and access to Intel's resources to help startups scale and innovate within the tech ecosystem. Notably, Intel Capital has made significant investments in the aviation technology sector, including a $100 million investment in Joby Aviation during its Series B funding round, which aims to develop all-electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) passenger aircraft. This investment is particularly relevant to the in-flight entertainment system context, as advancements in aircraft technology can directly impact passenger experiences. Additionally, Intel Capital participated in Joby Aviation's Series C funding round, which raised $590 million, further emphasizing its commitment to the aviation sector. Other investments, such as in MovieBeam, showcase Intel Capital's diverse portfolio, although they are less directly related to in-flight entertainment.

3. Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund)

• Website: av.vc
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Manchester, New Hampshire, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2023
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 258
• LinkedIn: deep-tech-fund-av-focused-fund

The Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund) is a venture capital firm based in Manchester, New Hampshire, founded in 2023. It provides accredited investors and institutions with access to professionally-managed, diversified venture portfolios, leveraging a network of over 10,000 investors to connect them with high-quality investment opportunities in the startup ecosystem. The fund has been involved in several notable transactions, including a $107 million Series B investment in Heart Aerospace, a Swedish company developing hybrid-electric aircraft, which could have implications for in-flight entertainment systems as the aviation industry seeks to innovate. Additionally, the fund has invested in Wheels Up, a private aviation company, which raises capital to enhance the flying experience, potentially including in-flight entertainment solutions. These transactions highlight the fund's engagement in sectors that are relevant to in-flight entertainment systems.

4. Boeing

• Website: boeing.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Arlington, Virginia, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2002
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 7
• LinkedIn: boeing

The Boeing Company, founded in 2002 and headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, is a leading aerospace manufacturer that designs, manufactures, and sells a wide range of products including airplanes, rotorcraft, rockets, and satellites. With over 10,000 employees, Boeing serves commercial airlines, government agencies, and military organizations, providing innovative solutions for safe and efficient air travel. Notably, Boeing has made strategic investments in the in-flight entertainment sector through its venture arm, Boeing HorizonX. In 2020, Boeing invested in Immfly, a company focused on enhancing in-flight digital capabilities for airlines, with an investment in the 'double digit' millions. This investment aligns with Boeing's strategy to improve passenger experiences during flights. Additionally, Boeing has acquired companies like ForeFlight and OzRunways, which specialize in aviation applications and electronic flight bag solutions, respectively. These acquisitions further bolster Boeing's digital services portfolio, enhancing their capabilities in the aviation industry, including in-flight entertainment systems.

5. 500 Global

• Website: 500.co
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2010
• Headcount: 201-500
• Number of deals in 2024: 98
• LinkedIn: 500-startups

500 Global is a venture capital firm and startup accelerator based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2010. The firm specializes in investing in early-stage technology companies, providing funding, mentorship, and resources to help founders scale their businesses. With a global focus, 500 Global has made significant investments across various sectors, including aerospace. Notable transactions include Savion Aerospace, which raised funds in debt financing, and Firnas Aero, which secured venture funding. These investments indicate 500 Global's interest in the aviation industry, which is closely related to in-flight entertainment systems, showcasing their commitment to supporting innovative technologies that enhance passenger experiences.

6. New Enterprise Associates (NEA)

• Website: nea.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1977
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 57
• LinkedIn: new-enterprise-associates

New Enterprise Associates (NEA) is a prominent venture capital firm based in Menlo Park, California, founded in 1977. NEA specializes in investment management and advisory services for startups, particularly in technology and healthcare sectors. The firm adopts a collaborative approach, emphasizing long-term relationships with entrepreneurs. Notably, NEA has invested in companies like Surf Air, which focuses on subscription-based air travel, and Wheels Up, a private aviation company. These investments highlight NEA's engagement with the aviation industry, which is closely linked to in-flight entertainment systems. Additionally, NEA's investment in Air Works India Engineering, which supports the aviation sector, further underscores their relevance in this context.

7. Liquid 2 Ventures

• Website: liquid2.vc
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 1-10
• Number of deals in 2024: 91
• LinkedIn: liquid-2-ventures

Liquid 2 Ventures is a venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2015. The firm specializes in investing in technology startups at the pre-seed and seed stages, as well as growth-stage companies. They provide capital, mentorship, and access to a vast network of industry insiders to help founders navigate their entrepreneurial journeys. Notably, Liquid 2 Ventures has been involved in several transactions relevant to the aviation sector, including investments in AeroVect and Airhart Aeronautics, both of which focus on innovative solutions in aeronautics. Additionally, their investment in Destinus, a Swiss startup aiming to develop hydrogen-powered supersonic flight, highlights their commitment to supporting advancements in aviation technology, which could have implications for in-flight entertainment systems.

8. Goldman Sachs

• Website: goldmansachs.com
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1998
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 59
• LinkedIn: goldman-sachs

Goldman Sachs is a prominent investment bank and financial services firm based in New York, founded in 1998. It offers a wide range of services, including investment banking, asset management, and wealth management, catering to a diverse clientele that includes corporations and financial institutions. In recent years, Goldman Sachs has been actively involved in various transactions that intersect with the in-flight entertainment system industry. For instance, they facilitated a significant debt raise for Sabre Corporation, a key player in travel technology that includes in-flight entertainment solutions. Additionally, their acquisition of a majority stake in TAIT, known for designing stages for major events, highlights their engagement in the entertainment sector. These transactions reflect Goldman Sachs' strategic interest in industries that overlap with in-flight entertainment, positioning them as a relevant investor in this space.

9. Boost VC

• Website: boost.vc
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: San Mateo, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2012
• Headcount: 1-10
• Number of deals in 2024: 18
• LinkedIn: boost-vc

Boost VC is a venture capital firm based in San Mateo, California, founded in 2012. The firm connects accredited investors with innovative deep tech startups through events like the Deep Tech Demo Day. Boost VC focuses on various high-tech industries, facilitating investment opportunities and showcasing emerging technologies. Notably, they have invested in TRL11, a manufacturer of motion video solutions for aerospace applications, which raised over $3 million in Pre-Seed funding. This investment highlights Boost VC's commitment to supporting technologies that could enhance in-flight entertainment systems. Additionally, their involvement with JetPack Aviation and other aerospace-related companies further demonstrates their interest in sectors that could impact in-flight experiences.

10. Sand Hill Angels

• Website: sandhillangels.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Mountain View, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2000
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 3
• LinkedIn: sand-hill-angels

Sand Hill Angels is an angel investment group based in Mountain View, California, founded in 2000. They focus on providing funding and mentorship to technology startups, offering access to capital, networking opportunities, and guidance throughout the startup journey. Their members are experienced investors and business leaders who actively participate in the startup ecosystem. Notably, Sand Hill Angels has invested in companies like Ampaire, which is involved in electric aviation, and Archer, a company focused on urban air mobility. These investments indicate their engagement in the aviation sector, which is closely related to in-flight entertainment systems. Additionally, their investment in Aerolane, a startup that could potentially intersect with aviation technology, further highlights their relevance in this context.

11. Blackstone

• Website: blackstone.com
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1985
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• Number of deals in 2024: 57
• LinkedIn: blackstonegroup

Blackstone Inc. is a leading investment management firm based in New York, specializing in alternative investments such as private equity, real estate, and credit solutions. Founded in 1985, Blackstone has built a reputation for delivering lasting value through its extensive portfolio and strategic investment approaches. Among its notable transactions, Blackstone has acquired a minority stake in IBS Software Services, which provides technology solutions for the travel and aviation sectors. Additionally, their investment in AGS Airports, which operates key airports in the UK, highlights their commitment to supporting the travel and tourism industries. Furthermore, their involvement with Jet Support Services, which raised significant funding, underscores their engagement in the aviation sector, making them a relevant player in the context of in-flight entertainment systems.

12. Founders Fund

• Website: foundersfund.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2005
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 44
• LinkedIn: the-founders-fund

Founders Fund is a venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2005. The firm specializes in investing in innovative technology companies across various sectors, including aerospace and software development. They provide funding and strategic support to startups, helping them grow and scale their operations. Notable investments include Hermeus, which is developing advanced aircraft, and Regent, focused on all-electric seagliders, both of which have implications for the future of air travel and in-flight services. Additionally, their investment in Flyr, a data science company that optimizes fare prediction and booking, showcases their interest in enhancing the travel experience. Their portfolio also includes high-impact companies like SpaceX and Palantir, indicating a focus on transformative technologies.

13. Kleiner Perkins

• Website: kleinerperkins.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1972
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 38
• LinkedIn: kleiner-perkins

Kleiner Perkins is a venture capital firm based in Menlo Park, California, founded in 1972. The firm specializes in investing in early-stage and growth companies, providing both capital and strategic support to entrepreneurs. With a strong focus on technology and life sciences, Kleiner Perkins has backed over 900 ventures, making it a significant player in the venture capital landscape. Notably, they have participated in funding rounds for CesiumAstro, a company developing satellite platforms, which could have applications in the in-flight entertainment system industry. In 2019, they were part of a Series A funding round for CesiumAstro, which raised $12.4 million, and they co-led a Series B round in 2022 that raised $60 million. These transactions highlight their engagement in sectors that could influence in-flight connectivity and entertainment solutions.

14. Khosla Ventures

• Website: khoslaventures.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2004
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 97
• LinkedIn: khosla-ventures

Khosla Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Menlo Park, California, founded in 2004. The firm specializes in providing funding and strategic guidance to startups, particularly in technology, healthcare, and sustainability sectors. Khosla Ventures has been actively involved in various transactions, including significant investments in companies like Hermeus, which is developing advanced aircraft, and AirHelp, a company focused on passenger rights. These investments highlight Khosla Ventures' engagement in the aviation sector, which is relevant to in-flight entertainment systems. Their support for innovative companies in these areas demonstrates their commitment to enhancing the travel experience and addressing passenger needs.

15. Bessemer Venture Partners

• Website: bvp.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1911
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 78
• LinkedIn: bessemer-venture-partners

Bessemer Venture Partners is a venture capital firm founded in 1911, based in San Francisco, California. The firm specializes in providing funding and investment management services to startups and growth-stage companies across various sectors, including technology and healthcare. Notably, Bessemer has made significant investments in companies relevant to the aviation and in-flight entertainment space. For instance, they invested $100 million in Boom Supersonic in December 2024, a company aiming to revolutionize air travel with supersonic passenger jets. This investment aligns with the in-flight entertainment sector as advancements in aviation technology often lead to enhanced passenger experiences. Additionally, their involvement with Iris Automation, which focuses on automation technologies for aviation, and Spire Global, which provides space-based data and analytics, further demonstrates their commitment to innovative solutions that could impact in-flight services. Overall, Bessemer Venture Partners is positioned as a forward-thinking investor with a keen interest in sectors that intersect with in-flight entertainment.

16. The Carlyle Group

• Website: carlyle.com
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Washington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1987
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• Number of deals in 2024: 25
• LinkedIn: the-carlyle-group

The Carlyle Group Inc. is a prominent investment management firm founded in 1987, specializing in private equity, real assets, and private credit. With a global presence and a focus on providing tailored investment solutions to institutional investors, Carlyle aims to drive long-term value. Notable transactions include the acquisition of ADB SAFEGATE, a global airport performance solutions provider, and an equity investment in Nordam Group, an aerospace repair and manufacturing company. These investments highlight Carlyle's engagement in the aerospace sector, which is closely related to the aviation industry, potentially influencing in-flight entertainment systems. Additionally, Carlyle Aviation Partners, formed through the acquisition of Apollo Aviation, further emphasizes Carlyle's commitment to the aviation space, although it does not directly target in-flight entertainment systems.

17. Honeywell

• Website: honeywell.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Charlotte, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2017
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 7
• LinkedIn: honeywell

Honeywell International Inc. is a technology company based in Charlotte, North Carolina, founded in 2017. It provides innovative solutions across various sectors, including aerospace, building automation, and energy. Honeywell serves businesses and organizations by enhancing operational efficiency and sustainability through advanced technologies and services. In recent years, Honeywell has been actively investing in companies that align with its aerospace focus. Notably, they participated in funding rounds for Daedalean, a company that develops advanced technologies for aviation, which could have implications for in-flight entertainment systems. Additionally, their investments in companies like Lilium and Electra.aero, which are involved in the future of air travel, further demonstrate their commitment to the aerospace sector. These transactions highlight Honeywell's strategic interest in technologies that could enhance the in-flight experience, making them a relevant player in the in-flight entertainment system industry.

18. Soma Capital

• Website: somacap.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 41
• LinkedIn: soma-capital

Soma Capital is a venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2015. The firm specializes in early-stage investments across a variety of sectors, including technology and finance. With a strong portfolio that includes over 20 unicorns, Soma Capital is dedicated to supporting innovative entrepreneurs and teams. Among their notable transactions, they have invested in companies like AeroVect, Exosonic, Odys Aviation, and Natilus. Odys Aviation, for instance, focuses on developing advanced aircraft solutions, which could have implications for in-flight entertainment systems. Similarly, Natilus is involved in innovative aircraft technology, further aligning with the aviation sector. These investments highlight Soma Capital's commitment to fostering innovation in areas that could intersect with in-flight entertainment, making them a noteworthy investor in this context.

in Flight Entertainment System Insights: Key Investors in the US

Investor	Headquarter	Size	Founded	Deals 2024
Y Combinator	San Francisco, California, United States (USA)	51-200	2005	802
Intel Capital	Santa Clara, California, United States (USA)	11-50	1991	23
Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund)	Manchester, New Hampshire, United States (USA)	51-200	2023	258
Boeing	Arlington, Virginia, United States (USA)	10001+	2002	7
500 Global	San Francisco, California, United States (USA)	201-500	2010	98
New Enterprise Associates (NEA)	Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)	51-200	1977	57
Liquid 2 Ventures	San Francisco, California, United States (USA)	1-10	2015	91
Goldman Sachs	New York, New York, United States (USA)	10001+	1998	59
Boost VC	San Mateo, California, United States (USA)	1-10	2012	18
Sand Hill Angels	Mountain View, California, United States (USA)	51-200	2000	3
Blackstone	New York, New York, United States (USA)	1001-5000	1985	57
Founders Fund	San Francisco, California, United States (USA)	11-50	2005	44
Kleiner Perkins	Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)	11-50	1972	38
Khosla Ventures	Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)	51-200	2004	97
Bessemer Venture Partners	San Francisco, California, United States (USA)	11-50	1911	78
The Carlyle Group	Washington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)	1001-5000	1987	25
Honeywell	Charlotte, North Carolina, United States (USA)	10001+	2017	7
Soma Capital	San Francisco, California, United States (USA)	11-50	2015	41

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