If Hollywood is anything to go by, we in Australia are a bunch of lucky people. From nods in popular films and TV shows to our true-blue actors who seem to be headlining every other American-produced blockbuster, the rest of the world is certainly aware of our existence.
And yet, when it comes to receiving the not-so-latest newfangled technological innovations, we tend to be more towards the bottom of the list than the top. Take in-flight Wi-Fi for instance. It’s been present in other airlines around the globe for long enough now for it to be considered standard, and yet there hasn’t been word of when we should expect to receive the same treatment Down Under. Until now.
Singapore Airlines has announced that they will be integrating in-flight internet access from next year, but only on select flights to start with. Of course, this is still only the first step towards domestic airlines such as QANTAS and Virgin Blue adopting the technology; and that’s only if they decide to integrate it.
The Singapore Airlines service will allow passengers to access all the glories of the internet while in transit, as well as the ability for smartphone users to make/receive SMSs and emails. Passengers will also be able to make and receive phone calls if they’re carrying a compatible device.
While I’m not altogether too fond of the idea of a plane filled with mobile phone-chatting folk, the ability to get online and work/play while in transit is not without its appeal. I’ve always considered in-transit time to be wasted time; particularly as someone who finds it difficult to relax. Oh, how much more work/relaxation (okay, mostly the former) I could get done if I had the ability to be online during otherwise wasted travel time.
What do the rest of you think about the prospect of having access to in-flight Wi-Fi?
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