I think those phones are great for emergencies. I've been tempted enough to try to use it for modem access. Wouldn't it be cool if I could write on Flyertalk my up-to-the-minute flight report? It's just too bad that they cost a fortune. I also feel useasy in making a phone call when I'm surrounded by people eavesdropping on my conversations.

I'm not sure if this is correct but I belive that one airline, forgot which, offered a 15 minute call for a flat rate. Was I dreaming?

But in all, I believe that the phone is there for a major convenience. I too wait to get to the airport to make my round of calls, check my voice mails and my pager messages. And I agree with Mike... the peace and quiet 5 and a half hours.

And one day we'll all have our Iridium phones.