Passengers aboard a Boeing aircraft will be able to surf the internet and send e-mails while they cruise 10,000m above the ground, thanks to a tie-up with a technology company.
The US planemaker has struck a deal with technology provider ScreamingMedia to provide passengers with broadband access services.
The services, called Connexion by Boeing, will be available for a fee on commercial airlines in late 2001 or early 2002, said Kevin Clark, chief executive of ScreamingMedia.
A prototype is already running on some business jets.
Passengers will have online access to local destination guides, restaurant listings, hotel information, rental car and transportation information, entertainment listings, cultural events and more.
Ric Vandermeulen, director of strategy and marketing for Connexion by Boeing, said: "This content complements our full internet/company intranet access and infuses the Connexion by Boeing service with the time-sensitive data you need to stay informed in a global manner."
Airline operators will also benefit from in-flight access to airline and crew data not available through traditional communication channels.
The first 10 destinations that will feature ScreamingMedia's services are San Francisco, Detroit, Chicago, New York, Dallas, Houston, Denver, Atlanta, Los Angeles and Seattle.
Clark said no comparable service existed.
- INDEPENDENT
Boeing passengers to surf as they fly
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