EMIRATES has confirmed that it will offer broadband internet access on one of its A380 aircraft in the first half of 2011, and will then have the capability on all subsequent aircraft deliveries.
According to Patrick Brannelly, Emirates Vice President, Corporate Communications - Product, Publishing, Digital and Events, the plan is to roll out the capability on subsequent new aircraft deliveries, and also to retro fit it for long haul routes where there would be a demand for such a product. Brannelly also made it clear that due to the size of the Emirates fleet, it would take time to fit and he did not want to raise passenger expectations.
Emirates currently has mobile phone capability on over 80 of its long haul aircraft using technology firm AeroMobile. The new internet capability will involve a switch to competitor OnAir, an Airbus / SITA-owned company which already proved the technology on Gulf Carrier Oman Air. The system allows internet access via laptops, as well as the ability via mobile phones and smart phones to make and receive calls, send and receive text messages and emails, and access the internet.
A pricing model has not yet been released. Meanwhile, Emirates will introduce Blackberry and smart phone capability on a new B777-300ER entering service next month.
