Connecting Passengers

Despite the failure of Boeing’s experiment with in-flight connectivity for computer users of broadband services, other airlines are testing out systems. Analysts differ on the potential for profitability, with some suggesting it is most realistic to view them as an enhancement of existing service, rather than a revenue center of their own. Ryanair is testing out the revenue approach with OnAir, which allows users of “smart” phones to talk or text or email. Internet access is also possible, depending on the plane’s computer architecture. OnAir is conducting fleetwide contracts and single-aircraft trials in order to attract customers. American Airlines is hoping to offer in-flight service using an outside vendor. It is not viewing it as a revenue generator, but is building its plan based on it being at least “cost-neutral” for the carrier. Others are focusing on much smaller markets until the technology has a chance to prove itself. Two major suppliers dominate: they are Panasonic Avionics and Thales Avionics.

• Availability:
  • Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/issn/00022543
• Authors:
  • McDonald, Michele
• Publication Date: 2007-10

Language

• English

Media Info

• Media Type: Print
• Features: Photos;
• Pagination: pp 63-64, 66
• Serial:
  • ATW: Air Transport World
  • Volume: 44
  • Issue Number: 10
  • Publisher: Penton Media
  • ISSN: 0002-2543

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Fees; Inflight entertainment; Internet; Passenger service; Profits; Wireless communication systems
• Subject Areas: Aviation; Finance; Passenger Transportation;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01082300
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: UC Berkeley Transportation Library
• Files: BTRIS, TRIS
• Created Date: Nov 30 2007 7:25AM