Whilst its a fact that most Aussies are addicted to their smartphones, new research reveals that for many, being on a plane isn’t the time or place to be connected, according finder.com.au.
Both Qantas and Virgin are currently trialling inflight Wi-Fi for domestic flights, and both plan to have services rolled out very soon. But how popular will they be remains to be seen.
A recent survey of 2,010 people showed that 44% of respondents either don’t like or don’t care about Wi-Fi becoming available on domestic airlines.
Broken down, the research reveals 19% dislike the prospect of inflight Internet, while 25% are indifferent.
Those against the idea prefer the peace and quiet that comes with being disconnected.
Others are concerned about Wi-Fi being used with ill intentions while some don’t want to have to listen to other people talking on the phone.
Angus Kidman, tech and travel expert at finder.com.au, isn’t surprised by Aussies’ rejection of inflight Wi-Fi, but suspects that people complaining now may ultimately end up embracing the service.
“While it’s understandable that some people want the option to switch off, it’s worth remembering that no-one can force you to use Wi-Fi inflight. I suspect that once the service is widely available, many people who currently say they’re opposed will be sneaking onto Wi-Fi to help pass the time during a flight.”
Overall, over half of respondents (56%) like the idea of Wi-Fi being available on domestic airlines. Of them, the main appeal is to watch their own movies and TV shows.
“You don’t necessarily need the Internet to keep yourself entertained whilst in transit,”
Mr Kidman says.
“These days there are plenty of options for inflight entertainment. Some airlines have their own app where you can watch content mid-air on your own device.
And you can always download movies or shows before you board. Streaming services like Netflix and Stan have also recently launched an offline viewing function making it easy to keep binging on your favourite TV shows without being connected.”
Communication and productivity round out the top three reasons why Aussies like the idea of Internet in the air.
Some would like to be connected to keep in touch via social media while others say they’ll be able to get more work done.
Not surprisingly, Gen Y has the biggest appetite for connectivity with 79% indicating they’d like Wi-Fi compared to Baby Boomers (31%) and Gen X (56%).
“Social media is a clearly a key driver for many people who want Wi-Fi on the plane. Expect to see a wave of in-the-air selfies once it becomes more widely available!”
Top reasons for inflight Wi-Fi
– I’ll stay entertained with my own movies and TV shows
– I’ll keep in touch with friends and family via social media
– I’ll get more work done
– I’ll have the chance to Skype/voice call friends and family
Top reasons against inflight Wi-Fi
– I prefer to stay disconnected, it’s more peaceful
– I’m worried about it being used with ill intentions
– I’ll have to listen to other people on the phone/on Skype
– I’ll have to work on the flight (when travelling for work)
The jury it seems, is still out on this one for now.