Air Canada launches in-flight internet service on Toronto-Los Angeles, Montreal-Los Angeles routes

Air Canada, the flag-carrier airline of Canada, has commenced offering in-flight internet service on a trial basis aboard some of its flights on the Toronto-Los Angeles and Montreal-Los Angeles routes.

Air Canada, the biggest airline in Canada, has thus become the first Canada-based carrier to offer in-flight internet access to passengers.

During the 10-week trial period that began on November 20, 2009, in-flight Web surfing will cost US $9.95 for a personal computer, and $7.95 for personal digital assistants (PDAs) and smartphones per flight.

For starters, Air Canada is providing the service only when flying over territorial United States.

Air Canada said it will test the in-flight internet service till January 29, 2010, and will decide afterwards whether or not to offer the service on other routes.

Louise McKenven, Air Canada’s senior director of marketing, said in a statement that the initial phase of the in-flight Web service is aimed at getting the customers’ feedback.

The eventual rollout of the facility, McKenven added, will be decided depending on the outcome of the period of trial, on getting the required regulatory approvals as well as the development of ground infrastructure in Canada to offer a domestic network.

Air Canada, she said, is the first Canada-based airline to start providing passengers access to the internet while flying.

Air Canada says it will enhance the number of North American flights equipped with internet access after a Canadian air-to-ground network is approved and put in place.

The onboard facility being offered to the passengers to work, email and surf the internet while flying is in addition to Air Canada’s existing “superior travel experience” which features access to standard power outlets and complimentary seatback-entertainment, according to Louise McKenven

The onboard internet facility, provided by Aircell, is available only in US airspace.

It is Aircell which provides in-flight internet facility on certain flights of the United States-based carriers Delta Air Lines and American Airlines.

Air Canada, the 8^th biggest airline in the world, flies to about 80 international destinations.