/ / / / /

Lawyers Threaten Delta's Plans To WiFi Its Planes

February 24, 2009 at 8:41 AM | by | Comments (2)

Unfortunately, it’s not all hugs and kisses in the land of in-flight WiFi. Delta, one of the leaders in domestic WiFi offerings so far, is in a little bit of hot water. Aircell and Delta are the subject of a lawsuit filed by Massachusetts based company Ambit. They claim that Delta yoinked their idea of using antennae to aid in personal computer communication in a location like an airplane, and that they already have a patent for this concept.

Delta said in an email statement that they’re looking to “vigorously defend our interests.” Their partner in crime, Aircell, declined to comment on the suit. So far, Aircell's other customers seem to be safe. We’re thinking that this could be a simple case of jealousy, but we’ll find out more as the year goes on. Even with this bad news, Delta is continuing to move forward at a decent pace with its in-flight WiFi offerings.

The official Delta blog is doing a good job of detailing which planes are getting equipped and how fast the transition is going. As of this week, they’ve got 21 MD80s and four 757s ready to go. So far, they are averaging about five installations a week. Just look for the snazzy WiFi logo when you board the plane; then you’ll be able to update you Facebook status from 30,000 feet.

Related Stories:
·Delta Sued Over WiFi Patent [AJC]
·The Latest Wings With WiFi [Jaunted]
·Delta coverage [Jaunted]

[Photo: scott_w_9]

Comments (2)

Post a Comment

Return to » Lawyers Threaten Delta's Plans To WiFi Its Planes


Jealousy...

I'd just like to ask you to validate the logic behind one of your statements above: How would Ambit's attempts at achieving recognition for their success imply that they were jealous? After numerous years and dollars spent developing this brilliant technology, patenting it, and finally seeing it through, how could this be deemed a case of "jealousy"? Would you suggest that they just sit back and watch another party capitalize on their efforts without speaking up and finally earning their piece for all their hard work?
ellaveggie on March 4, 2009 at 6:31 PM #Permalink

This Is Why They're Jealous

I'm thinking that Ambit just had an idea, and they patented a concept. If they were able to provide in-flight WiFi then they'd be selling it to everyone.

Another company stole their dream before they could get to it, so now they are jealous. Of course, I could be totally wrong....

kjb on March 5, 2009 at 9:45 AM #Permalink

Return to » Lawyers Threaten Delta's Plans To WiFi Its Planes

Join the conversation!

Not a member? .
Use of this Site constitutes acceptance of our User Agreement (effective 3/21/12) and Privacy Policy (effective 3/21/12). © Condé Nast. Your California Privacy Rights. All rights reserved. The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Condé Nast.
Ad Choices