New solid-state lighting is successfully developing and more efficient LEDs are quickly replacing conventional light sources. This particular scenario offers new possibilities where visible light can also be used for communications, especially in electromagnetic sensitive areas as are aircrafts, presenting a solution to the looming electromagnetic spectrum shortage. The use of the infrastructure of illumination also implies cost reductions in terms of design and operation. In this paper we describe the fundamentals of visible light communications (VLC) technology, innovative applications and recent developments in this area. We detail the different components and design of a VLC system, and finally an experimental demonstration is set up to provide wireless connectivity in a commercial aircraft cabin.