United Airlines has become the first US-based carrier to offer wifi internet access on long-haul overseas flights.
The carrier has launched the satellite-based Panasonic Ku-band service on a Boeing B747 aircraft serving transatlantic and transpacific routes.
United first announced plans to fit over 300 of its aircraft with wifi capabilities back in November 2011 (click here for more details).
Two Airbus A319 aircraft have also been fitted with the technology, and the carrier expects to have completed the rollout by the end of this year.
Customers can choose from a 'Standard' connection, initially priced between US$3.99 and US$14.99 depending on the flight duration, or US$5.99-US$19.99 for a higher speed or 'Accelerated' option.
Last summer rival US carrier Delta announced plans to add Panasonic Ku-band wifi capabilities to its fleet of over 150 Boeing and Airbus long-haul aircraft, with the rollout due to start this year (see online news June 28, 2012).
For more information visit united.com.
Report by Mark Caswell
