Panasonic To Offer Airborne Wi-Fi

Panasonic (MC) is hoping to capitalize on Boeing's (BA) decision to shut down its Connexion business. David Bruner, the head of strategic marketing for Panasonic Aviation Corp., told an industry magazine he's already got commitments from airlines for 150 airplanes to continue the in-flight Internet service.

Bruner told Shepard Inflight-Online his goal is 500 aircraft in 60 days. "We have a complete system designed, developed, and ready to go." Bruner said. Lufthansa and SAS are Connexion customers, accounting for about 80 planes.

Panasonic is offering "preferential pricing" to airlines which agree to a five-year commitment to carry the service. Bruner was quoted saying Panasonic was targeting a cost to the airlines of about $10 to $15 a day. "That's a little easier to swallow than the $27, or whatever, Connexion wholesaled service to airlines at," said Wifinetnews.com.