In-Flight Texting Arrives at British Airways

Being stuck on an airplane shouldn’t get in the way of your quest for SMS-induced carpal tunnel, so British Airways will offer texting and mobile data use via cell phone starting this fall.

The capability will be offered only in business-class and only on the London-New York route. Call it a “pilot.”

No word on whether VoIP clients will be allowed, but apparently BA will “listen to feedback,” according to a spokesperson, in mulling over whether to allow voice communications.

Emirates became the first airline to offer in-flight cell service last year, and Qantas and Ryanair both have announced plans to allow it.

In-flight mobile data use isn’t just for cell networks. In the United States, American Airlines, Delta and Virgin USA all have partnerships in place for in-flight Wi-Fi access.