channels, and travelers’ groups like FlyerTalk.com have created new
apps that allow members to find one another while on the road. Business
travelers can use these services to share cabs to the airport, swap
advice or locate colleagues in the same city. A survey of 84 of the
world’s largest airports by the Airports Council International earlier
this year found that 96% offered Wi-Fi connections, and 73% had
connections throughout their terminals. About 45 % offer the service
free; the rest charge an average of about $8 an hour. More than 10
airlines in North America, including American, Delta and Southwest, are
wiring their planes for Internet access, and major foreign airlines
like Lufthansa are introducing new technology that will let customers
connect on transoceanic flights. For those who want to connect, few
airlines can match Virgin America for mingling opportunities. In
addition to its Internet service, it offers seat-to-seat messaging via
its seatback video screens. It has also teamed up with match.com to create a party atmosphere on specific flights (reportedly at least one couple who met this way became engaged). FULL ARTICLE @ NY TIMES
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