Since passengers are no longer satisfied simply with cheap fares and cheap vacation packages, Alaska Airlines announced Wednesday that it will offer Wi-Fi service to its passengers.
Alaska reported that it will use Aircells Gogo service on all of its planes, even though it had already completed testing with another Wi-Fi provider, Row 44. Alaska and Aircell are installing the Gogo service on a Boeing 737- 800 and shortly will kick off testing to gain certification from the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration).
Aircell offers the ability to install Wi-Fi quicker across its fleet with less expensive equipment, according to Alaska Airlines. Aircell is viewed as an experienced provider given that it has deployed more than 730 of its systems on planes.
Alaska Airlines plans to start its Wi-Fi charges at $4.95, increasing the price depending on the length of the flight and the passenger device being used.
Wi-Fi is increasingly becoming an option offered by airlines, though few offer this option on all of their flights. AirTran Airways and Virgin America offer Wi-Fi throughout their fleets.
Eventually Wi-Fi access in the air will be commonplace. Internet connectivity will be seen as an essential service that airlines must offer to attract business travelers. Increasingly, travelers will not tolerate being out of touch, wherever they might be.