Who selects the audio programs, and why can I buy them?
Most airlines hire audio programming firms to compile playlists for their various audio channels. These programming firms typically provide the DJs or host accompaniment, license the music, and duplicate the music on tape or CD. Most airline music licenses are for play-only and not for re-sale. Occasionally, the artist or record company will enter into an agreement to allow a work to be played on aircraft and sold to the passenger. This is a relatively rare occurrence inasmuch as the record company typically wants to sell the entire original CD/tape.
