While both the supply and demand for reliable in-flight Wi-Fi service continues to grow, the facility still often comes with a hefty price tag. Providing a solution for passengers who are simply looking to stay connected without necessarily surfing the web or using data-consuming mobile apps, Gogo, a provider of broadband internet services for the aviation industry, is introducing a new service that will allow travelers to use instant messaging apps at a relatively lower price of less than US$3. With access to popular apps such as WhatsApp, Viber, Skype, and iMessage, the messaging pass is available for purchase on mobile devices from a total of 12 Gogo-enabled airlines, including Air Canada, Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Airlines, United Airlines, and Virgin America.

“We realize that some passengers simply want to continue conversations and stay connected in flight, but don’t necessarily want or need to utilize email or full web browsing,” said Ash El Difrawi, Gogo’s chief commercial officer. “Our messaging pass is a low-bandwidth solution that is offered at a lower price point than our internet service, making it the perfect solution for passengers who simply want to exchange messages with other app users on the ground.”

For more information, visit Gogo.