By Truman Lewis
ConsumerAffairs.com
August 5, 2008
Airlines are adding fees furiously, trying to compensate for higher fuel prices. Most are simply charging for items that were once free but Delta is adding wireless Internet access to its entire domestic fleet, to be priced at $9.95 for flights under three hours, $12.95 for longer hauls.
Other airlines have been testing wireless Internet systems but Delta is the first to pull its flaps in and commit to offering the service on all its domestic flights.
The airline says the equipment is relatively easy to install and doesn't add much weight so it won't markedly increase fuel consumption and should quickly turn into an attractive profit center.
Surveys have found that wireless Internet access is the top choice of frequent fliers, who rated it more important than enhanced movies or other in-flight entertainment.
Delta says its wireless will enable travelers to surf the Web, send and receive email and log on to virtual private networks (VPNs) but will block voice communications, so as not to pollute the cabin with cell-phone-style conversations.
American, JetBlue, Southwest and Virgin America are all in various phases of testing wi-fi in their aircraft.
Meanwhile, JetBlue has pulled a one-two punch on travelers wanting a place to rest their weary heads.
Yesterday, the carrier yanked its pillows and blankets. Now, it says it will replace them with much more plush versions for travelers willing to fork over $7.
