Other Middle East and Africa Frequent Flyer Programs - Inflight Wi-Fi on El Al

There's a story on the Israeli news site "ynet" that El Al just signed on with Boeing to install Wi-Fi access on its fleet on 744's and 772's.

They say installation will commence in June 2005 and be complete by the end of 2006. Expected cost: $10 to $30 for the duration of the flight.

I just hope they DON'T enable cell phones. Its one thing to e-mail, surf and IM - which everyone can do privately and quietly. Cell phones will cause havoc, especially on long-haul flights.

You are right cell phones will cause not only havoc but a bloomin headache. Some Israelis tend to talk a little loud.

OH NO !! who needs email inflight this is the last place w/o it, let's not take away the peace quiet :(

This is the Full Text.

SEATTLE, Feb. 17, 2005 - El Al Israel Airlines, a leading global airline focused on passenger services, and Connexion by Boeing, a business unit of The Boeing Company (NYSE:BA) today announced the signing of a definitive agreement for the installation of the Connexion by BoeingSM real-time, high-speed Internet service on the air carrier's long-haul fleet.

The agreement calls for installation of the Connexion by Boeing service to begin in the second half of 2005 on El Al's long-haul fleet, which includes Boeing 747-400s and Boeing 777 aircraft. Installations are expected to be complete by 2007.

"Boeing has a long-standing and proud relationship with El Al, an airline that moves swiftly to bring leading services and technologies to its passengers," said Connexion by Boeing Vice President, Commercial Aviation Business, Stan Deal. "We are pleased that Connexion by Boeing has been selected as El Al's Internet connectivity service provider of choice. We also would like to thank the Ministry of Communications for its support in helping to bring the benefits of high-speed connectivity to El Al and its passengers."

"El Al is proud to be among some of the first airlines in the world to provide passengers with high-speed in-flight Internet service. In-flight connectivity, the capability of connecting to the world in real time, represents a revolution in service and a conceptual change amidst passengers, primarily on long-range flights," said Yoav Levy, El Al Deputy General Manager, Commerce and Aviation Relations.

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ELAL have just sent round an email to all FQTV's about this new offering, I'll post it as soon as I translate it for you guys into English.

You are right cell phones will cause not only havoc but a bloomin headache. Some Israelis tend to talk a little loud.

Oy! Between the cell phones and in-flight praying they are going to have to have F cabins or quiet sections lol! But I am VERY happy about the WiFi, they will most likely win over some J class customers from CO.

Now if the IFE could be AVOD... :)