Or At Least, The Year For Its Gogo System

If 2008 was the coming out party for inflight Internet access, 2009 promises to be the year it takes the US by storm. That's the word from communications provider Aircell, which this year saw its Gogo service installed onboard planes operated by Virgin America and American Airlines, with Delta Air Lines on the horizon.

Aircell says it is targeting additional commitments for Gogo to reach 2,000 commercial aircraft by the end of 2009.

"2008 was a year of groundbreaking milestones for Aircell culminating in the successful launches of Gogo Inflight Internet service on American Airlines and Virgin America," said Jack Blumenstein, President and CEO of Aircell. "2009 promises to be Aircell’s most extraordinary year yet. We are ending 2008 on a high note with the recent launch of Virgin America and upcoming launch of Delta Air Lines and are poised to carry the momentum into the new year and beyond."

Aircell says most major US carriers are in advanced discussions with. or are already contractually committed to the company. It is also in talks with numerous international airlines, with the September 2008 announcement of Air Canada's intention to launch Gogo service "a taste of things to come."

"Innovative airlines that offer Inflight Internet are already seeing a migration of passengers from those airlines that do not offer this highly valued service," Mr. Blumenstein continued. "Business travelers and leisure travelers alike are hooked on Gogo. Our strong and growing customer response is demonstrating that $9.95 to $12.95 is a small price to pay for the ability to stay connected and take control over how you spend your time in-flight."

Gogo Inflight Internet service debuted on American Airlines' entire 767-200 fleet in August and Virgin America in November. In 2009, Aircell plans to expand its network and Gogo offering, including adding multimedia applications such as games, television, movies and music.

FMI: www.aircell.com, www.gogoinflight.com