My last post was done from this window seat (I'm back home on the ground now).
I'm sure many frequent flyers are aware and may have already used inflight internet services. Not many flights are equipped yet but the numbers are growing.
(a side note - did you every play with the photo app on a macbook? - fun stuff)
As with most new technology, some are eager to use it and others complain that the change it brings will ruin something. I have posted about it before.
Now that Wi-fi is a standard on laptops and users are familiar with hotspot service at hotels and coffee shops, it is a no-brainer that this airline version connects-up in a very similiar way. Your laptop finds the access point and will typically connect automatically. When you start up your browser you are directed to sign-on page. Using your credit card you buy a session for the entire flight.
The experience was great. I downloaded video podcast from Itunes, did email tasks, IM chats, and listened to streaming music. The connection was better than my home one at times.
For those that worry about losing their only place to be unconnected, I suggest not taking out their laptop and read a good book.
Here's a good post by Runway Girl that gives the Row44 view. Row44 is the company behind the Alaska Air offering.
Share a smile
