With airlines competing for business as much out of necessity as out of desire to simply be the best, spending millions on integrating Wi-Fi into each flight is a risky venture at best.  Yet it is one that a number of airlines are hoping will give them the advantage when customers are seeking the right flight for their next trip.  So, with that in mind, it is time to look at what the service offers.  Is airplane Wi-Fi going to be the next big thing, or will the investment put the nail in the proverbial coffin of certain companies?

In truth, the promise of Wi-Fi during flights is more than likely to be a success, provided it is properly marketed.  Most airlines are looking to allow access to the service for a rather low fee, comparable to what some hotels charge for access.  For longer flights, a flat fee will be issued to provide service rather than the need for hourly charges.  With Wi-Fi service paid for, users will be able to send and receive email and files, stream videos, and generally do whatever it is that they like to do on the web.

With that said, there will doubtlessly be restrictions on the service, but this again is a good thing.  Voice chat and other speech programs will be banned, which takes away the fear that planes will suddenly resemble other mass transit systems that are bombarded by the sounds of dozens of one-sided conversations.  Parental controls will likely be tight as well, meaning that small children will not accidentally be given a view of the adult content an overzealous passenger may feel compelled to view.  There will probably be some individuals who complain that parental controls block sites they want to see that could be harmless, but in all they will likely be a necessity.

Ultimately, airline Wi-Fi will mostly benefit those in first and business class.  Anyone who has ever flown economy class knows that there is barely room to move, let alone use a laptop without performing various acts of contortion.  For business and first class travelers, however, the service will help them ensure that they are able to work even during the periods when they are finally able to relax and get away from doing so.  Even those in economy will be able to access social networks and email via smartphones and handheld game devices.

In short, the time for Internet access on airplanes has arrived.  In truth, the service is much needed in a world where our need for instant access to information has surpassed our ability to wait a few hours to find out who is starring in the next big movie to come out.  Whether for business or pleasure, the technology is apt to be a welcome one for many passengers.  Much like reserved airport parking is considered by many a luxury rather than a necessity, it is still a service that offers convenience that exceeds the price, which is a certain indicator of future success.