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Technology
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3-D screening machine for carry-on bags being piloted
Business travelers may find the carry-on screening process to be quicker and more convenient if the newly implemented pilot-programs perform well. The Automatic Explosive Detection System (Auto-EDS) creates a three-dimensional representation of a carry-on bag’s contents, eliminating the need to remove certain items.
Not having to remove electronic devices including laptop computers, or containers of gels and liquids would be a welcome change for business travelers. While the new 3-D screening machines do not screen any more quickly than the machines currently in operation, they will make the screening process quicker and more convenient for travelers. The new machines also provide an automated bin return system.
The new system—called COBRA, for Carry-On Baggage Real-Time Assessment, provides rotating images that allow for better identification of a bag’s contents, and will automatically highlight any suspicious objects. If highlighted, a bar code is printed for the bag and it will be manually searched in the presence of the owner.
The machines are being piloted at Cleveland Hopkins Airport, Baltimore-Washington International, and Dallas/Fort Worth Airport.
Source: Fort Worth Star-Telegram
In-flight Wi-Fi a reality
On December 11, JetBlue began offering limited in-flight broadband Wi-Fi service. Just the first of several airlines moving in the direction of Internet connectivity in the skies, JetBlue is introducing this new offering in conjunction with Yahoo and Research in Motion, labeled in this test phase as “BetaBlue.” With a focus on business travelers, JetBlue is offering email and instant messaging.
Exciting news is rarely approached without caution and cynics. Thus far, the system has proven to have its challenges with reliability and sustainability. The airline acknowledges these limitations and is working on improving the system. While there may be some kinks still to be worked out, the service is gaining interest and praise from travelers who rank this technology high on their list of reasons to choose a certain air carrier. However, outspoken critics are bemoaning the limitations of the offerings (Yahoo Mail and Blackberry Curve) as too restrictive. As more carriers develop the means to offer in-flight Internet, options for travelers for both airline and services are expected to grow.
JetBlue is not the only carrier beginning to offer in-flight Internet services. American Airlines, Virgin America, and Alaska Airlines have all signed agreements with technology firms to begin service in 2008. Southwest is also trying to launch its service yet this year.
Sources: USA TODAY, www.webpronews.com, www.portfolio.com
