United Airlines has introduced onboard satellite-based wifi on a B747 serving long-haul overseas routes, making it the first US-based carrier to offer the service internationally.
The aircraft – which flies both trans-Atlantic and trans-Pacific routes – is kitted out with Panasonic Avionics Corporation’s Ku-band satellite technology that allows customers to access the internet on their wireless devices such as tablets, smartphones and laptops in the air via the inflight hotspot.
The carrier has also implemented this system on two Airbus 319 aircraft that serve domestic routes, allowing for faster internet service than the previous air-to-ground technology provided. UA aims to introduce this improved connectivity on 300 planes by the end of 2013 – including A319, A320, B737, B747, B757, B767, B777 and B787 aircraft.
Customers have the choice of two speeds: "Standard", priced between US$3.99-14.99 depending on the duration of flight, and "accelerated", which costs US$5.99-$19.99. This development is part of a US$550 million fleet upgrade that includes 180-degree flat-bed seats in premium cabins, expanded legroom in Economy Plus, improved IFE with streaming capabilities and retrofitting overhead compartments for larger storage spaces.
Last year, another US carrier, Delta, also announced plans to introduce wifi on long-haul flights with similar technology (see story here).
Inflight connectivity is a growing trend around the world; international airlines that have recently rolled out wifi connectivity include Emirates (see here), Singapore Airlines (see here) and Garuda (see here).
For more information visit www.united.com
Alex Andersson
