Tuesday, July 20, 2010

Wi-Fi a No-Go unless free

SFGate.com reports that travellers used to getting a free wireless Internet connection on land aren’t willing to pay for one at 30,000 feet.

It says wireless Internet service on airlines hasn’t caught on, mostly because of the price. Travellers already paying US$25 to check a bag and $20 for a roomier seat don’t want to fork over $5 or more for Wi-Fi unless it’s necessary. They’re
saving their Web surfing for solid ground, where “hot spots” offer the service at no charge.

Airlines have offered promotions, including some free service, to draw attention to their Wi-Fi. But experts say only about 10% of pax on Web-enabled flights have taken
advantage.

Airline technology consultant Michael Planey thinks Wi-Fi will be free as early as mid-2011, and carriers will work on ways to cover the cost, perhaps through sponsorship by big companies who would make money through advertisements.

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