Why was I not told about this earlier?

With a MagSafe Airline Adapter, you'll never worry about losing power while traveling. Just plug it into your airline seat power port and keep your MacBook or MacBook Pro powered up the entire flight.

Now you'll never lose your work or interrupt a DVD movie because your battery runs out at 35,000 feet. The MagSafe Airline Adapter will keep your MacBook or MacBook Pro juiced throughout your flight. Sleek and light, it works with in-seat DC power ports available on many commercial airliners — both EmPower ports and 20mm ports with the included adapter. Check with your airline regarding availability of in-seat power ports.

Because it's a MagSafe Adapter, you'll continue to enjoy MagSafe convenience just as you're already enjoying at home or work. The magnetic DC plug both ensures a tight connection and enables a clean break from the power port if there is undue tension — preventing your MacBook from being pulled off of your tray table if someone accidentally yanks the cord.