New York: From cell phone use to high-speed Internet access, the connected life is spreading to the skies.
In January, Emirates airline plans to launch mobile phone usage in its planes, making it the first airline to allow passengers to make cell phone calls on its flights.
Fliers have long been able to keep in touch with those on the ground by using phones built into the backs of airplane seats. But the costs of those seatback phones can be upwards of $10 a minute, plus a connection fee.
US carriers don't allow in-flight cell phone calls, although the authorities are reviewing the safety concerns associated with mobile calls made in the air.
The regulatory agency has asked a committee to conduct a study looking at whether portable electronic devices like cell phones interfere with aircraft navigation systems.
A majority of business travelers (61 percent) oppose the idea of being able to use their phones in the sky, according to a global survey conducted by travel management company Carlson Wagonlit Travel early this year.
But if the technology is there, the service will eventually make its way to the skies, said Chris McGinnis, editor of Expedia Travel Trendwatch.
"Whether people like it or not, in-flight cell phone use is going to become a reality," he said.
Airlines are also exploring less intrusive ways to keep in-step with the increasingly connected lifestyle of their passengers.
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