Keep close at any distance: In-flight Wi-Fi access expanding

One of the most appealing qualities of travel is the opportunity to escape. Every vacationer looks forward to getting away—if only for a few days—from our always-connected world. But we’re finding more and more travelers who want to stay in contact with their loved ones while onboard. For that reason, every ship we partner with offers Wi-Fi access for a reasonable fee, enabling our guests to share their Christian travel experiences as they occur, rather than days later via slideshow or Facebook post. 

But what about staying connected on the way to Miami before embarking on your cruise, or while flying to Israel before a Holy Land tour? Nearly one-third of North American commercial aircrafts were equipped to provide Internet services to passengers last year, and an estimated one in 20 passengers spent an average of $10 to access in-flight Internet. 

Expect those numbers to increase in the future. This month, the Federal Communications Commission took an important step toward improving travelers’ Internet access during commercial flights, voting to increase bandwidth and open frequencies for an air-to-ground Internet service proposed by Qualcomm, Inc. 

While another vote is required before final approval, experts suggest that the new regulations won’t only improve access, but also lower costs. 

What does it mean for guests on our Christian tours and cruises? It depends on what kind of traveler you are. If you’re the kind who hopes to escape the noise, get away with God, and experience the world around you without distractions, better online connectivity may not be your cup of tea. 

But if sharing your travel experiences with loved ones enhances your vacation—or if being connected gives you more peace of mind—improved in-flight Wi-Fi may be the one thing that makes your vacation of a lifetime even better. Regardless of preference, our passengers appreciate knowing they have the option.