People who have long commutes by rail have a great deal of time spent passively watching scenery go by, when they could spend it working. While there is certainly work that can be done offline, these days most work requires an Internet connection. Recognizing this, the Department of Transport in the United Kingdom is encouraging the installation of Wi-Fi in its rail system, in particular the line that runs from Plymouth to London.
Considering Wi-Fi to be a much-needed amenity, people described by the Plymouth Herald’s William Telford as “leading business figures” are pressuring Patrick McLoughlin, the Secretary of State for Transport. Some of these figures include the president of the Plymouth Law Society, Phil Thorneycroft, and the managing director of the National Marine Aquarium, Dr. David Gibson.
McLoughlin has responded, recognizing the benefits that Wi-Fi would offer commuters: “The Government recognizes the benefits Wi-Fi can bring to passengers, in particular those undertaking longer journeys, such as those from London to the South West.” He noted that it is his understanding that the Wi-Fi on Class 180 trains traveling between London and the Cotswolds is “popular with passengers.” He added, “We are currently in negotiation with FGW with regard to the Greater Western franchise… while the current discussions with FGW are under way, it is not possible for me to say what the outcome might be as regards the provision of Wi-Fi.”
Wi-Fi will soon be an expectation out of transportation systems, as students in Joplin, MO, will be getting Wi-Fi in their buses[JWBWB1] (at least those that take students on long trips to such activities as away games and academic competitions). Airlines are fighting to provide better and cheaper in-flight Wi-Fi to passengers, in order to replace the slow and cost-prohibitive connection that most people have come to expect. More and more, people are able to enjoy the ability to connect to Wi-Fi anywhere.
Edited by Rory J. Thompson