NYC-LAX: AA or UA
August 21, 2008 – 11:12 amYesterday I discussed how it would be in United’s best interest to upgrade its PS service rather than chisel away at the amenities. American’s wi-fi service that debuted yesterday further highlights this point. For $12.95 American is offering wi-fi on its non-stop 767 flights from NYC to Los Angeles, San Francisco and Miami. In contrast, United is taking away its pre-landing snacks.
So now businesses have the choice of sending their employees on PS where they can rest comfortable or on on AA where they can stay plugged in. And if not working, you can watch slingbox or mlb.tv or any of the 800000 million entertainment options provided by the internet.
This is different from TVs as it offers both work and entertainment flexibility. It is a huge step and could send ripples through the NYC-California market, espcially if United continues on the path of devaluing the PS product.
