UK train operator GNER today completed the installation of wireless internet to its entire train fleet. All 41 of GNER”s electric and diesel trains now have WiFi on board, offering passengers the ability to surf the internet and send and receive email throughout the East Coast Main Line route.
The operator claimed it now operates the world”s biggest fleet of wireless internet equipped train carriages, and Britain”s first all-WiFi train fleet. The project was due to be completed in May 2007, but has now been finished more than seven months ahead of schedule.
WiFi is now available on all GNER journeys, including the longest route served by GNER from London to Inverness, a distance of 580 miles.
GNER claimed it was the first train operator in the UK to provide uninterrupted internet connection for passengers while travelling, using WiFi technology.
The project cost ”3.2m ($6.1m). GNER chief executive officer Jonathan Metcalfe said: ”Wireless internet has immense potential for both business and leisure users, and we”re very encouraged by the usage levels and positive feedback from passengers so far”.
GNER trains send and receive communications signals via a combination of a roof-mounted satellite dish and mobile phone antenna, using 3G and GPRS technology. Each coach along the entire length of the train is then connected via the onboard wireless network to create a WiFi ”hot-spot” throughout every coach on the train.
First Class passengers can enjoy complimentary access to WiFi during their journey. In Standard Class the system operates on a ”pay-as-you-go” basis, similar to an internet caf”.
WiFi is also available free of charge in all eight of GNER”s First Class lounges, at locations along the East Coast route.