Google is partnering with Virgin America to provide free WiFi on every Virgin America flight between November 10, 2009 and January 15, 2010, the Official Google Blog reported today.
Wi-Fi on Virgin America is powered by Gogo Inflight internet. Gogo uses Aircell’s terrestrial service and dedicated 800 MHz frequencies and works on all WiFi enabled devices including most laptops and PDAs.
Gogo, a terrestrial-based service, is competing with satellite-based Row 44 and mobile media company JiWire to deliver free in-flight Wi-Fi.
Under the Row 44 partnership, JiWire will provide advertising from over 100 advertisers. These will be displayed on Row 44’s new Skytown Center virtual mall, an in-flight portal.
The ad network will target the coveted “business traveler” and is expected to launch on at least two airlines this fall.
Southwest and Alaska Airlines have already begun to test Row 44-enabled Wi-Fi. Southwest currently charges from $2 to $12, depending on the distance you are traveling and the type of device you are using to connect. Alaska Airlines is still assessing a number of different pricing and subscription models.
Related Dailywireless articles include; Free Plane-Fi, American Airlines & Southwest: Inflight Wi-Fi Fleetwide, Shipboard AIS Gets a Satellite Swarm, AT&T CruiseCast Live for Vehicular Television, Virgin America: Wi-Fi for All, PlaneFi Roundup, AT&T/TerreStar Ready Satphone Service, and Motorola + SkyTerra Team for 700 MHz/Sat Radios, and HyperLocal: There’s an App for That.
