US airplanes may offer net access by 2006
Washington: US air travelers could be surfing the Web by 2006 with government-approved technology that allows people access to high-speed Internet connections while they fly.

The FCC yesterday also voted to solicit public comment about ending the ban on in-flight use of cell phones. Among the issues to consider are whether passengers want to be surrounded by cell phone conversations.

The FCC approved a wireless internet offering from Boeing Co. that uses satellites to get air travellers online.

Boeing's "Connexion" service is already being offered by some international carriers, which include some flights to and from the United States. Domestic carriers have shied away from it in large part because of the cost of outfitting planes with the technology, estimated to be about $500,000 per jet.
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