CHICAGO-United Airlines moved to dramatically increase the accessibility and ease with which its customers will be able to use wireless devices such as personal digital assistants and wireless-enabled laptop computers, announcing an agreement with Aerzone to establish wireless broadband local area networks in airports.
United’s wireless plans are subject to the approval of each individual airport, but could eventually bring high-speed wireless access to Red Carpet Club lounges, gate rooms, terminals, First Class Lounges and “1K” Frequent Flyer Centers throughout the country.
Current Internet access only is available through conventional telephone lines, limiting access to the Red Carpet Club lounges or modem-equipped pay phones. But because a wireless broadband network is not limited to a certain number of phone lines, the new monthly subscription or one-time access services from United and Aerzone will give customers unlimited access to the Internet, the companies said.
Airport locations for the new services will be determined during the next few months, however the first phase will include United hub airports in Chicago, Denver, Los Angeles, San Francisco and Washington, D.C., United said.
In related news, Aerzone said it signed a definitive agreement with Delta Air Lines to bring broadband Internet service to Delta customers. The companies first announced their agreement in April.
The initial rollout of Aerzone’s service in Delta Crown Rooms is scheduled to be completed by 2001. The first airports to receive the service will include Delta hubs Hartsfield Atlanta International, Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International and Salt Lake City.
