Demand for in-flight Wi-Fi is soaring for US flyers but so is the expectation of fast, reliable service "like at home or work," according to a new survey.
A survey commissioned by Honeywell Aerospace and conducted by US market research firm Kelton, polled 1,000 US adults who had used Wi-Fi on a flight in the last year.
It said half of all travelers "would be willing to give up another convenience for Wi-Fi that is as fast as home".
Also, 22% have paid a higher fare for a flight with Wi-Fi and 17% tried a different airline for the first time because of enhanced Wi-Fi service.
"Demand is so strong that 37% would be upset if they did not have Wi-Fi access on their next flight," the survey concluded.
The results showed travelers are willing to endure other inconveniences in return for faster internet speeds in the sky.
One third would be willing to check in up to three hours before boarding and just under 45% said they "would endure airport security twice" for faster Wi-Fi.
Kelton’s research also showed at least 85% of travelers would make use of in-flight Wi-Fi if it was free.
"Customers are accustomed to easy access to Wi-Fi and they expect it to be fast and consistent like at home or work, and those expectations are expanding into the sky," said Jack Jacobs, Honeywell Aerospace vice-president of product management and marketing.
