Wi-Fi in the Sky

Virgin America is set to launch in-flight Wi-Fi service this week and had a demonstration flight this Saturday out of San Francisco International Airport. They also partnered with YouTube for their demonstration flight.

Finally, an airline is offering what I feel should have been available years ago! For a society of people who are permanently connected to our Blackberries, cell phones and PDAs, a 5-hour cross country flight without being able to check our e-mails is a long time. Finally, Virgin America is giving all travelers what they need, and people will be able to access Internet on flights from 25,000 feet above.

After passing 10,000 feet in the air, CNET blogger who was on the demonstration flight said he was able to find a sky-high Wi-Fi signal and create an account. The service is, of course, not free and will cost you $9.95 for flight 3 hours or less and $12.95 for flights over 3 hours. Kent German explains how it works: "The service is available through Aircell, which powers the in-flight Wi-Fi technology. Radio towers through the continental United States transmit EV-DO Rev A signals to the planes. Three antennas on the outside of the aircraft pick up the signal, which is then transmitted throughout the cabin."

Also, cell phone usage in the air is still a no-go, but if you have a Wi-Fi enabled cell phone you will be able to text. Lastly, a very important aspect of the in-air Wi-Fi is that Virgin America will not be sensoring Web sites. Just be aware of your cabin neighbors and try to keep your browsing PG!

- Jessica I.