American Airlines to launch in-flight Web service in 2008

American Airlines will be the first U.S. carrier to offer Internet service on its flights.

The airline will launch AirCell’s high speed Internet connection on American’s Boeing 767-200 aircraft beginning in 2008. American Airlines typically flies its 767s on transcontinental routes.

“We understand that broadband connectivity is important to our business customers and others who want to use their PDAs and laptops for real-time, inflight broadband communications,” said Dan Garton, American’s vice president of marketing in a press statement. “This is part of our continuing effort to enhance the travel experience for our customers and meet their evolving needs.”

Germany’s Lufthansa is looking for an in-flight provider, following Boeing’s decision to end its Connexion service. Southwest Airlines also hope to introduce onboard Internet in 2008, according to a Bloomberg story.