As you know, we’ve been testing Wi-Fi on four aircraft since March. I’m happy to announce we have concluded our testing for inflight Wi-Fi and we are very happy with both the technical performance of the system and the response of Customers who have used it. We are pleased to be continuing with our plans to offer satellite-enabled broadband access through California-based Row 44.
This fall we will be moving to the next step of certifying Southwest’s full fleet with plans to begin fleetwide rollout of the Row 44 satellite service in the first quarter of 2010. Southwest is ready to have this service up and running as soon as possible and we are excited about these next steps.
Over the testing phase Customers have been utilizing the service for anything from e-mail to streaming video. Those interested in using the service during the test period have had the opportunity to log on to the service via their own personal Wi-Fi enabled device (laptops, iPhones, Wi-Fi enabled smart phones, etc). Additionally, Southwest has been testing a variety of price points for the service and will continue testing price points through the end of 2009.
The technology works, the product is great, and we look forward to offering more Customers Wi-Fi service in 2010.
Comments
Can you comment on why WN chose to go with Row 44's satellite service over Aircell's ground-based Go-Go service? What are the technical advantages that appealed to Southwest? It seems like the biggest advantage would be that it works over water ... which is an odd advantages for Southwest to be focused on ... or is it ...
Thomas,
here is the answer:
Bandwidth and speed! This solution provides more bandwidth than the air-to-ground versions offered by carriers like American, AirTran, and Virgin America. We believe that this solution provides the most “at office and at home-like” internet experience for our Customers.
By working with Row 44, we also have the ability to customize our product to best meet Customer preferences and evolving usage trends.
Now if only Southwest would offer power outlets at the seats. As a constant business traveler taking many 3-4 hour flights, having the WiFi to entertain myself would be marvelous, except when my laptop powers off halfway through the flight.
Earlier last year it was touted that SWA would be the first carrier to have WiFi in all it's aircraft. Obviously, that didn't occur but it seemed it would. What happened and why has it taken so long to get WiFi installed when other carriers have done it in less time?
What if any is the fuel penalty because fo the drag from the dome on top of the aircraft? I have only seen it once but it's a lot bigger than the domes of the airlines with TVs.
It would be great if Southwest comes up with an annual plan for those of us who live on your planes.
Thanks!
David Meyer
Tampa, FL
I love that Sothwest continues to be the leading airline in the U.S. I will not fly anywhere unless Southwest flies there....otherwise I know there will be complications. With this new feature to arrive in 2010 it reinforces the company's desire to accommodate their guests as much as possible. Way to go Southwest! I fly from Providence to Baltimore all the time to visit family while I'm away in college. I promise you my relationship will continue as you continue to impress me with your amenities and service.
Thank you so much.
John
Any plans to offer A-Listers a discount or complimentary usage...?
This is great news! Thanks SWA for all of your efforts!
One question: have there been any determinations as to whether the service will continue to be free, or whether there will be a charge for the service?
So what are your current thoughts on price points....$x per trip / segment; per day; depending on length of trip (ie: Chicago to Portland non stop > Chicago to Milwaukee?) etc?
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