Delta airlines have announced the future roll out and launch in-flight Wi-Fi broadband internet access in 330 of their domestic aircraft in 2009. The Delta in-flight internet service will be available in both first class and economy classes and will utilize Aircell’s Gogo in-flight Internet technology.

Costing for this service will be a flat fee of US$9.95 for flight 3 hours less and $12.95 for flights longer than 3 hours. I have to commend Delta on the great pricing for this service, when we compare with in-flight phone calls priced across most airlines worldwide, this will really be a good bargain.

“Delta remains committed to providing a travel experience that maximizes the time our customers spend with us onboard by offering them even more productivity options,” said Richard Anderson, Delta’s chief executive officer. ”Our customers asked for in-flight connectivity, and we’re responding by rolling out the most extensive Wi-Fi network in the sky.  Beginning this fall, our passengers will have the ability to stay connected when they travel with us throughout the continental U.S.”

Gogo will be offered initially on Delta’s fleet of 133 MD88/90 aircraft and will rapidly expand to the remaining domestic fleet of more than 200 Boeing 737, 757 and 767-300 aircraft throughout the first half of 2009. The airline expects to have more than 330 aircraft complete by summer 2009.  The full fleet agreement between Aircell and Delta will provide a consistent, convenient experience for customers traveling on the airline who wish to use the Gogo Internet service.

 
“The advent of Air-To-Ground (ATG) technology has made broadband connectivity in the cabin economically viable for the first time for commercial airlines,” said Jack Blumenstein, President and CEO, Aircell. “The game has changed and Delta will be among the first to provide an enhanced customer experience with broadband Wi-Fi access on more than 1,000 daily flights within the U.S.”