Airlines to offer in-flight internet, mobile technology

An increasing number of airlines are now getting set to provide passengers with internet accessibility, as well as mobile technology onboard planes. Air France is one of the pioneers in this regard, as it has already started up a pilot project aimed at exploring possibilities for in-flight mobile phone use, but a growing list of carriers have now announced similar plans. American Airlines, for example, has confirmed that it will allow internet usage on flights and will charge passengers $10 to use this service for an unlimited period on many routes. Alaska Airlines is also planning on following this lead and is preparing to permit internet access, even if recent reports indicate that it—like other US carriers—may filter VoIP for the time being. In Europe, British Midland, Ryanair and TAP—Portugal’s flag carrier—have all confirmed that they are getting ready to offer in-flight internet services. These carriers are looking to offer this service through OnAir, which will permit passengers to not only use the internet, but to also engage in mobile voice-based communication. The introduction of this technology on Ryanair’s flights, however, has been delayed, due to concerns on the part of some regulatory bodies active in the airline industry. While most airlines are planning to charge a fee for in-flight internet use, US-based JetBlue appears prepared to buck the trend by offering this service absolutely free. The carrier has enlisted the support of Yahoo, and RIM Ltd (the developed of the Blackberry) as it gets ready to introduce this new service.

www.airfrance.com