Alaska Airlines to launch in-flight internet

Wireless Internet access through a satellite link is to be tested by American Airlines, it has been reported.

The carrier is to provide wireless hotspots inside a plane's cabin through a satellite receiver on top of the plane, so passengers can connect to the internet. Alaska Airlines has been working with the California-based company Row 44 for the last two years to develop the technology. Steve Jarvis, Alaska Airlines' vice president of sales, marketing and customer experience, said: "Bringing broadband internet access to the skies is one of the most important things we can do to enhance the experience of both business and leisure customers.

"We're moving ahead with testing and ultimately plan to bring wireless broadband to our whole fleet." Alaska Airlines was the first North American carrier to offer tickets over the internet in 1995. The airline is based in Seattle and has a fleet of 114 aircraft.