United launches in-flight Wi-Fi
United Airlines has launched in-flight Wi-Fi on its international wide-body aircraft.
The first aircraft to be equipped with internet connectivity is a Boeing 747-400, which will operate both trans-Atlantic and trans-Pacific routes.
United has also rolled-out the service on two Airbus A319 aircraft serving domestic routes, and expects to complete the installation of Wi-Fi on 300 mainline aircraft by the end of this year.
“Satellite-based Wi-Fi service enables us to better serve our customers and offer them more of what they want in a global airline,” said Jim Compton, vice chairman and chief revenue officer at United. “With this new service, we continue to build the airline that customers want to fly.”
Customers have the choice of two speeds, standard or accelerated, with prices ranging from US$3.99 to US$19.99 depending on the service and flight duration.
Eventually, United plans to install satellite-based Wi-Fi on all its A319, A320, B737, B747, B757, B767, B777 and 787 aircraft. Customers will be able to use the service to access the internet via their laptops, smartphones and tablets.