The Most and Least Wired Airlines, Airports

PC World — Pop Quiz: How many U.S. airlines currently offer broadband Internet access to all passengers?

If you answered "none," give yourself a pat on the back because you're absolutely right. But that is about to change. Right now, JetBlue--one of the most wired airlines in the U.S.--has one flight that offers limited e-mail service, but not full Web surfing. Continental, Southwest, Virgin America, and American Airlines are among the carriers testing or launching full e-mail and Web access services in the coming months. If all goes as planned, by early to mid-2009, travelers should have a variety of choices for in-flight Internet access.

When it comes to offering tech amenities, only a few airlines are leading the way, notes Henry H. Harteveldt, vice president and principal airline/travel industry analyst for Forrester Research. That's understandable, given the economic turbulence the airline industry has experienced over the past few years.

Meanwhile, worldwide demand for portable PCs keeps gaining altitude. DisplaySearch expects 228.8 million notebooks will be sold worldwide this year--nearly ten times as many as in 2001. It's a safe bet that the growing ranks of laptop users will translate into growing demand for in-flight Internet access. A recent Forrester Research survey shows 57 percent of all U.S. leisure passengers are interested in going online during a flight.

Here is PC World's roundup of the best U.S. and international airlines for business travelers and tech fans. Our goal: To help make your next airline trip as smooth, productive--and entertaining--as possible. To determine the top carriers for these purposes, we took into account the quality of the airlines' Web sites; availability of mobile browser and SMS tools; departure-gate amenities; in-flight connectivity and entertainment options; and the availability of power ports in all cabins. We also took a look at the most 'wired' U.S. airports, judging where you're most likely to find Wi-Fi connectivity, power recharging stations, and more.

You also need to know which airlines to avoid, at least for now. Our list of the least tech-savvy airlines tells you which carriers offer relatively little in the way of advanced in-flight entertainment, power ports, and other smart options.

America's Most Tech-Savvy Airlines

In terms of tech amenities, some low-cost upstarts such as Virgin America and JetBlue are way ahead of most big carriers.

1. Virgin America: More power outlets--plus instant messaging

Coach seats on every flight feature 110-volt power outlets--meaning you won't need a plug adapter to power your laptop. Most airlines haven't added power ports to as many seats as Virgin America has, and the majority of airline power ports require an adapter to plug in. In addition, Virgin America offers USB connectors at seats throughout its cabins, allowing you to charge your iPods and other USB-compatible devices. The airline will roll out in-flight wireless Internet connectivity throughout 2008.

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