Southwest to test in-flight WiFi, but only to the first 20 passengers :-)

Southwest Airlines is experimenting with in-flight WiFi. I guess this means that the first 20 passengers to shove and push their way to the front of the line will get the WiFi. Everyone else will be hosed. :-)

Southwest says it isn't allowing cell phone calls on the service, despite the fact that the technology allows VoIP calls. Is it planning to block VoIP? It's not saying.

One question lingers: When will it put electrical outlets on the planes? It's nice to have WiFi, but somewhat useless to do so without a constant feed of electricity to one's laptop. WiFi sucks battery life. Lots of battery life. Southwest may be OK because most of its flights are short-haul flights. But for the other airlines (like American and Lufthansa) that are dabbling in WiFi, they'll need to come up with some way to power the laptops or it will be a bittersweet blessing to travelers.

[ydemontcheuil]

Actually, Matt, American Airlines has power ports on most of their aircrafts - every third row in coach usually (and all seats in business and first). It's the cigarette lighter type. It's usually not too difficult to get a seat with power, by selecting the seat in advance on line.
Now, I am eagerly waiting for the WiFi on AA!

[Matt Asay]

Yes, I was speaking of Southwest. I've flown American recently and found the power ports to be a blessing. I just wish my Airline, Delta, would actually add things like power outlets, WiFi, good customer service, etc. :-)

[B2BMarketer]

Thanks for the info - I did not know that.