Corporate Flight Attendant Resource Guide
If you have found yourself flying on business, you know how difficult it can be to find an outlet that allows you to use your laptop while on a flight. Trying to figure out what devices will work can be time consuming. Whether you prefer wireless or hardwired, there is a good chance that your current device is not compatible with the airline's in-flight entertainment system.
This resource guide should help make it easier for you in choosing the right online resources for your specific needs and comfort level. It's important to check with the airline first to make sure your device is compatible, since they do change.
How do you find the right device?
The first thing you should do when looking for a new device is find an online forum or discussion board that focuses on the specific devices you want to research. Most major websites offer discussion boards about their products on their website.
Don't be afraid to search for a forum specifically geared towards your needs, such as one for business travelers. This way, you can ask questions that may be more specific or even join in on conversations regarding new technology such as streaming video or in-flight entertainment systems. You can also research how other business travelers have fared with certain products.
Ask for advice from others, but put your own touch on it as well. The main reason to consult with others is to get ideas and suggestions. Take what you learn from online forums and combine it with your own personal needs, expectations and requirements in order to find the right device.
What devices currently work with airline systems?
The following are some of the devices that work with airline systems:
PC laptop – This is a good option if you want the most flexibility when working on a flight. However, you would need an Ethernet cable to connect it to the plane's Wi-Fi signal or use a USB cable to connect it directly into the plane's system.
Tablet – These have become the new "must have" gadget for many business travelers. They are easy to transport and with the right apps, can be a very powerful business tool. Some tablets, such as the iPad, work with some inflight Wi-Fi hot spots. However, most mobile devices that use Wi-Fi do not.
Wireless eReader – This is a good option if you want to be able to read from your device on a flight without using data or an Internet connection. Many eReaders, such as Kindle products and Nook products offer free trials of certain publications; you may find some free business publications or works of fiction.
Digital camera or camcorder – If you are traveling on business and need to take pictures or video, you should be able to use your digital device on a flight. Some cameras and camcorders may even work with some inflight Wi-Fi hot spots. However, the majority of mobile devices that use Wi-Fi do not.
External Hard Drive – If you need to download files or transfer data quickly and securely, an external hard drive is a good option. Most businesses today probably have an internal hard drive, but if yours does not, an external one is the next best option for accessing business files during flights.
Gaming console – The Nintendo Wii features in-flight compatibility for many major airlines starting in 2008 . The cost of the device is $6.25 for one flight or $12.50 for a "semi annual" package. The Wii Remote is compatible with the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection service and the Wii console must be tuned to the airline's specific frequency.
If you are traveling on a major airline, check their website for information on compatible devices and services offered by that airline.
What other resources do you need?
When choosing any device related to your business travels, make sure that you keep in mind what type of network environment you will be working in. Don't just look at your specific airline, but also how the whole business travel process works. What happens when you get to your destination? What happens to your device when you arrive?
You need to make sure that you have the appropriate data plan for your needs and that you bring an international power converter and possibly an international plug adapter as well. If using a Wi-Fi connection, check out the Wi-Fi options for the place where you will be staying as well.
If traveling internationally, check with your company's IT department to see if there are any specific restrictions on certain devices or applications such as Skype.
What niche devices will be the best fit for me?
If you already own a device that works with Wi-Fi, there is no need to purchase a new one. If you want something new or prefer to use an alternative method for connecting to a plane's Wi-Fi, there are some good options.
If you are using a tablet computer, there are many applications and games that are compatible with certain carriers, including: American Airlines, Delta Air Lines and United Airlines. These applications work on Wi-Fi hot spots both domestically and internationally.
The one drawback of using these apps is they generally have limited hours of availability. For example, if you are on a domestic flight with American Airlines and start your game or app when you leave the gate, it will only be available for use during the flight. You can purchase a subscription or pay per play to make use of the apps when your device is connected to an airline's hot spot.
Check with your airline before purchasing any of these applications as they vary from carrier to carrier. Also, some airlines have different apps for business travelers in addition to their entertainment options for in-flight entertainment.
If you are traveling domestically, you can use the in-flight entertainment system available on most planes today. The audio/video options and controls vary from plane to plane; however, most entertainment systems have a good guide for making the best use of them. A lot of airlines also have apps like Netflix, but these generally depend on the carrier that you will be flying with.
As stated above, Wi-Fi offers an alternative to using a tablet or another device for business travel. A Wi-Fi-enabled cellular phone can be used for calls in flight, but only if there is free Wi-Fi service at your gate or when connecting to other networks, such as 3G or 4G LTE mobile networks.
Another excellent in-flight option is the use of an eReader. Most eReaders are known for their long battery life. This makes them a great choice for inflight use as well. You can download some books on your device before you leave, or most airlines offer free trials of certain books and publications that you can access during your trip.
If you will be using Wi-Fi for business travel, you are really not limited to using just any device that works with Wi-Fi. There are many options depending on how much flexibility and power you need as well as how much weight and space your carry-on bag can accommodate.
Conclusion
With the various features and services offered by airlines and the availability of devices with Wi-Fi, you can be sure that there are many options available to you. Choosing the appropriate business travel device is an important part of planning for your business trip and choosing a device is not too complicated.
You may find that with a little research on your part, you will be able to find the right mobile device or in-flight entertainment system to meet all of your needs while staying within budget. You do not have to carry around unnecessary weight when traveling or purchase a costly device that only works on other carriers at home when away from it's home carrier's network.