The Madera Tribune Red Line

When you’re traveling, you have the same tech needs as you do on the ground. Advances in airline technology mean that frequent travelers can keep up with email, games, and television while they are in flight. Sean Seshadri, tech blogger and experienced traveler, lists the best Wi-Fi and tech perks you can find on airlines around the world.

Wi-Fi connectivity enables you to keep in touch with your friends and family or with your office. Live TV is informative and entertaining. Many airlines also offer movies and games. Finally, it’s important to be able to charge your devices. Sean Seshadri has compared 5 top airlines, both domestic and international, and rated their in-flight technology options.

1. Qatar Airways

Qatar Airways has reliable in-flight Wi-Fi. Passengers may use the Wi-Fi for free for one hour, and access unlimited service for only $10. In-seat power and USB ports are available to keep all of your devices charged. The planes are also equipped with the ability to send in-flight SMS messages. Hundreds of movies and TV shows are available, though the airline does not feature live TV.

2. Emirates

Emirates has onboard Wi-Fi at a reasonable rate. You can charge your device in your seat using the AC and USB ports. Similar to Qatar Airways, Emirates also offers SMS messaging and phone calls. Emirates offers live TV and thousands of entertainment channels including games.

3. Delta Airlines

Delta has the best technology package available on any American airline. The planes are equipped with 15Mbps Wi-Fi. An unlimited Wi-Fi package is available for $16. Onboard USB outlets enable you to charge your phone and laptop. Mobile WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and iMessage are free. Delta has also invested in new seat-back touch screens for many domestic and international flights. The airline offers 12 channels of live TV.

4. British Airways

British Airways has a solid lineup of entertainment and communication options. The airline is rolling out Wi-Fi on all of its long-haul flights. The airline has two tiers of service for connectivity: Simply Connect, a slower speed meant for email and web browsing, and Connect Plus, a faster service that is suitable for streaming video. Simply Connect costs $18 for a full flight, and Connect Plus costs $30. In-seat power is available. While text messaging is possible on the plane, there is no live TV available.

5. JetBlue Airways

Another American airline in the top five is budget carrier JetBlue. JetBlue has a surprising array of tech features available on a low-cost airline. WiFi is free for the entire flight. The planes have in-seat power. Live TV is available, but text messaging is not. JetBlue is in the process of upgrading its seat-back screens to 10”. Amazon Prime streaming is available, as are a variety of on-demand movies.

When you’re traveling, you can stay up-to-date with the news and weather as well as enjoying some relaxing downtime with a TV show or movie. Domestic and international carriers recognize that passengers want more entertainment options, and many carriers are stepping up to the challenge. Sean Seshadri has ranked these airlines based on their tech services and convenience.