American Airlines to conduct in-flight tests of Web access
American Airlines says customers will be able to test in-flight Internet access on two flights beginning today, with broader service expected to begin in the next couple of weeks.
Facing record high fuel prices, airlines are looking at entertainment and information services as ways to make a few more bucks per passenger. American plans to charge $9.95 to $12.95 for Internet service, depending on the length of the flight.
The test with technology partner Aircell will begin on a flight from New York’s Kennedy Airport to Los Angeles International Airport and a return flight, said Doug Backelin, American’s manager of in-flight technology.
The service will be free during the test period.
The airline declined to say on which specific flights the testing would be conducted.
American is among several companies preparing to offer in-air Internet service.
Aircell also is working with Virgin America, and JetBlue Airways Corp. started testing free e-mail, instant-messaging and some Amazon.com services aboard one of its planes in December.
American will begin charging for Internet service soon aboard its Boeing 767-200s on flights from New York to Los Angeles, San Francisco and Miami.
Passengers will be able to use e-mail and instant messaging, download video and connect to secure networks on notebook computers or other wireless devices, such as smart phones, through three wireless access points on the plane, said Dave Bijur, an Aircell executive. Aircell’s networks can handle a planeload of Web surfers, he said.
Besides the paid service, passengers will be able to connect free to American’s website, Frommer’s travel guides and limited news headlines, Backelin said.
The airline won’t filter any Internet content. Backelin said attempts to block pornography, for instance, could disrupt legitimate websites.
“We already have policies and procedures to deal with inappropriate material that people bring on board, including magazines and DVDs,” he said, adding that it will be up to flight attendants to enforce online protocol.
