Alaska Airlines selects Row 44's system for in-flight wireless Internet service.

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Plans to introduce in-flight wireless Internet service next year, based on the satellite-based broadband connectivity solution from Row 44, a provider of broadband communication for the airline industry, have been unveiled by Alaska

Alaska Airlines said it will test Row 44's system on a next-generation Boeing 737 aircraft in spring next year and intends to equip its 114 aircraft fleet, based on the outcome of the trial.

According to the airline, the technology will provide an entertainment and business network at 35,000 feet, for passengers with Wi-Fi-enabled devices such as laptop computers, PDAs, smartphones and portable gaming systems. It confirmed users will be able to gain high-speed access to e-mail, the Internet, virtual private networks and stored in-flight entertainment content.

The Row 44 system is designed to work over land, water and across international borders, allowing the airline to provide service throughout its route system in Alaska, the Lower 48 states, Hawaii, Canada and Mexico.

A lightweight radome positioned on top of the aircraft incorporates an antenna to receive and transmit signals through the Ku-band satellite system and customers use wireless hotspots installed in the aircraft cabin to connect to the system.

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