Qantas scrubs in-flight Wi-Fi

Qantas Airways has announced it will not implement Wi-Fi services across its network, as demand for the technology does not yet match the costs associated with providing the service.

The decision was made after months of trials, with the carrier finding customers keener on improved internet access on the ground over net access in the air.

Less than five percent of Qantas passengers utilised paid Wi-Fi when it was trialled on full-service, international flights to Los Angeles and London over an eight month period.

A Qantas spokesperson told e-Travel Blackboard the carrier would continue to evaluate demand and reconsider Wi-Fi options where necessary.

"Most of our A380 services operate at night and so another dampener on demand was the fact people preferred to sleep than surf the web,” a spokesperson explained.

The airline charged customers between $12.90 and $39.90 for data packages.

Despite the decision, Qantas passengers will still have the ability to make phone calls and send/receive texts on all A380 aircraft, as well as some 747 jumbos and A330s.

Meanwhile, Virgin Australia is currently reviewing its own in-flight Wi-Fi options but has not yet revealed any plans.

Earlier today, Etihad Airways launched its new “Etihad Wi-Fly” internet and mobile connectivity service, powered by the Panasonic Avionics Global Communications Suite.

Sourced: etravelblackboardasia