Finnair started testing on Wednesday, using wireless internet and tablet computers onboard one of its intercontinental Airbus A330 aeroplanes. The two-month trial will also examine how passengers use tablets during the flight.
Low-cost airline Norwegian Air has offered wireless internet on some flights to and from Finland for several years, but up until now few other companies have offered a similar service.
Passengers in Business Class on scheduled flights and Comfort Class on charter flights will be offered a chance to take part. Those who do will be provided with a Windows 8-equipped HP ElitePad tablet featuring films, TV shows, music, games and wellness programs. They’ll also be asked to respond to survey questions to determine, for instance, how tablet use stacks up against conventional in-flight entertainment systems.
The airline says it has been considering onboard web access since 2005.
Last week Finnair launched a social check-in service allowing passengers to link their Facebook profile with the seat map. The voluntary system lets other passengers see who else has checked in on a flight and where they are sitting.