AMSTERDAM, Dec 11 — At a time when most airlines are striving to bring passengers the in-flight WiFi they so eagerly demand, Lufthansa has introduced an app that encourages “digital detox” before, during and after a flight.

In the midst of the busy holiday season, the German airline is encouraging customers to switch off their devices’ Internet connectivity not only during flights but also before and after, allowing them to take a true break.

The Lufthansa Flight Mode app, available on the AppStore for iOS devices, helps motivate users to stay offline. The goal is not only to help passengers relax, but also to raise funds for the airline’s Help Alliance charity.

On December 24, every minute of downtime recorded by users of the app around the world will be converted into donations to Help Alliance. The operation will fund initiatives to build schools in India and Benin and a day care centre in Brazil. — AFP/Relaxnews