Southwest Airlines is the first US carrier to offer gate-to-gate Wi-Fi connectivity, which is provided through Global Eagle Entertainment’s Ku-band satellite connectivity platform.
The airline is able to offer the service thanks to the recent lifting of restrictions on the use of personal electronic devices (PEDs) by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Southwest Airlines Chief Marketing Officer Kevin Krone said: “We know this is something customers have wanted for some time now and we’re excited to give them the freedom to use personal devices while in the air and on the ground. With free live TV compliments of DISH and the ability to stay connected for the entire flight, customers can count on Southwest for the best customer experience in the business.”
John LaValle, CEO of Global Eagle Entertainment, said: “Southwest has always been exceptional in terms of providing the services that both differentiate them within the market and truly provide a better experience for the millions of loyal customers they serve. As the only domestic carrier with active satellite-based Wi-Fi, they have yet again raised the bar.”
