Internet Access on Airlines - The Web on Your Flight

Late in 2004, Lufthansa began an interesting project called FlyNet® technology with the help of Connexion by Boeing: Bringing internet access to its long distance flights. Today, Lufthansa offers many flights to Europe serviced by satellite internet connections, with more coming as early as this spring.

Here is a list of flights currently serviced by FlyNet® technology. Lufhansa will has an introduction to high-speed internet on its web site.

So How Well Does Airline Internet Work?

This Slashdot discussion was begun on a Lufthansa flight and is all about the service. It's not blazingly fast, but you're in an airplane lumbering along to Europe or the US--I figure a slight wait is tolerable.

Internet Access in the Air at a Price

Slashdotters may be slightly negative about the price--$30 per flight, but I'm pretty postitive. On long distance hauls, like my 10 hour flight from SFO to Europe, it works out to 3 bucks an hour for work and entertainment of my chosing. Not a bad way to spend your time in a seat designed for a kneeless, undersized contortionist.

Other Participating Airlines

Right now, only Scandinavian Airlines, Japan Airlines, All Nippon Airways, and Lufhansa offer somewhat spotty Internet access on their flights. For an up to date list from Connexion by Boeing, see Service Availability.