Wi-Fi in the Sky!

Wi-Fi in the Sky!
It’s official! The airlines are finally getting with the program and offering in-flight Wi-Fi! Now, we can send email to co-workers and family, check the weather and even shop from Wi-Fi-enabled laptops, BlackBerries and iPhones at 10,000 ft! Finally, this is one change in air travel that we can be excited about. Currently Gogo is [...]

It’s official! The airlines are finally getting with the program and offering in-flight Wi-Fi! Now, we can send email to co-workers and family, check the weather and even shop from Wi-Fi-enabled laptops, BlackBerries and iPhones at 10,000 ft! Finally, this is one change in air travel that we can be excited about. Currently Gogo is the leader in airline wifi, but rest assured, lower cost companies like Row 44 are hot on their tales and starting to match their service, cost and speed.

Here’s a break down of who’s offering Gogo. How much is costs and which flights have it.

Gogo In-flight Internet

According to Gogo’s website, “Gogo is the first wireless broadband network with wings, providing coverage on select partnering airlines across the continental United States* at speeds similar to wireless mobile broadband services on the ground.” Gogo is bringing wireless internet to airlines like United, American and Virgin America. (Delta and Air Canada are launching soon!)

Once the aircraft reaches 10,000 feet and the captain gives the okay to turn on portable electronic devices, just log in to Gogo. Gogo’s website provides short videos that show you how to connect your laptop, iPhone or Blackberry while in-flight. I suggest signing up for this service and becoming familiar with the process before you travel to avoid any “connect problems”.

One thing that I thought was funny, is that Gogo also has a video related to your in-flight internet manners. They remind you to not view websites that could “shock your neighbor”, use headphones or shut the sound off and that making voice-calls is not allowed on flight even if connected through the internet(and let’s be honest,  it’s annoying).

How Much?

Rates vary depending on the device and the length of time.

Does my device work?

Laptops with wireless connection definitely work. Most phones that have an internet connect can use Gogo also. But consult the list to be sure!

Who’s got it?

United Airlines

Currently United is offering services from JFK to San Francisco and Los Angeles and has plans to expand it’s domestic

Virgin America

So far, Virgin is offering the service on the most flights, but still primarily the coast to coast flights.

American Airlines

American is offering Gogo on flights from JFK to San Francisco, Los Angeles and Miami.

FYI: There are rumors circulating that companies like Southwest will offer free wifi as part of their in-flight services. I’ll believe it when I see it. If they do, maybe they’ll be able to chat with hotel owners who still make us pay $14.95 per day to use their wifi!

Source: feedproxy.google.com