Road warrior

The business of travelling for work

Internet takes off    

THE SPEED OF worldwide internet access on board flights will be picking up pace over the next year, with United set to begin rolling it out internationally later this year. Air France and KLM will begin trials of wireless internet access on board in early 2013.

Wifi access is freely available on overland US and Alaska services via GoGo mobile. Passengers can purchase access onboard or in advance at GoGoAir.com, 24-hour access costs $12.70.

The AeroMobile Wi-Fi system available through Panasonic is already in operation with Emirates, Virgin Atlantic and Malaysian Airlines. Other airlines due to link up include Lufthansa, Gulf Air, Etihad, SAS, Cathay Pacific and Turkish Airlines.

Suite sensation

IF YOUR COMPANY had an unrestricted travel policy, would you be tempted to use the Singapore Airlines suites on the Airbus A380? Each suite has sliding doors for privacy, and the seat converts into a double bed. There is also space to have one-to-one meetings.

Not only can you pick your own gourmet meals, served on Givenchy tableware, you will also have your own steward to look after you. Having watched films on the 23-inch screen, you can settle down for a good night’s sleep. Prices for a suite from Ireland to Singapore via London, Paris or Frankfurt from €7,000.

Chinese airports are Shannon’s gift

CHINA’S ANNOUNCEMENT it will build 70 new airports in the next three years may well lead to opportunities for airport managers, freight carriers, aircraft manufacturers and low-cost operators.

China plans on buying more than 300 aircraft a year for the next four years as part of its five-year economic plan. New airports will mean a surge in Chinese travelling, and greater access to more markets.

Dr Vincent Cunnane, chief executive of Shannon Development, was a guest speaker at the China Civil Aviation Development Forum this month. During his visit, Cunnane had exploratory talks with Chinese business interests about the opportunity to develop a Chinese cargo hub, aviation leasing and aviation training investment at Shannon.

Europe is China’s biggest export market and Shannon Development is collaborating with Shannon Airport, IDA Ireland, Forfás and the Irish Exporters’ Association in looking at cargo-related opportunities for Shannon Airport and its environs.

Coaches that coax

BUS ÉIREANN thinks real road warriors should hop on board any of their 28 new coaches and enjoy the free wifi, charging points, tables, extra leg room and the chance to arrive at meetings relaxed. The new coaches, some double-deckers, will operate on the Dublin-Belfast and Dublin-Galway routes with prices from €18.05 return, see buseireann.ie. Belfast tickets are €25 return and can be had at Busáras, vending machines and from the driver, and run 24 hours a day.

Goodbye Hollywood

INTERNET ACCESS on board flights may also see the end of in-flight entertainment systems. With air carriers trying to cut fuel costs, the removal of IFEs could mean as much as one to two tonnes less weight per aircraft.

Cathay Pacific has mooted the idea of removing the systems, and will watch the growth of personal digital devices, including smartphones. Passengers could find their seats fitted with charging points instead of screens carrying standard Hollywood fare. AirAsia X, the Malaysian low-cost carrier, does not provide in-flight entertainment.