Spring launch of Ryanair's in-flight mobile phone service

Ryanair's plans to enable its passengers to use their mobile phones while in-flight look set to be launched in the spring.

The low-cost operator intends to fit out 25 aircraft with technology provided by OnAir during the April to June quarter. This technology will allow passengers to make calls charged at international roaming rates, with Ryanair receiving a cut of the profits made on the calls.

The launch of the service was set to take place last year but Ryanair boss Michael O’Leary said regulatory approval was taking longer than expected to secure. The results of tests should be in by March, allowing Ryanair to operate aircraft with the service after this date.

Passengers will also be able to use Blackberrys and Treos, though usage will be prohibited during take-off and landing when it could interfere with the aircraft's electronics.

Air France began a six-month trial in December of a similar service on a single aircraft operating on its Paris to Warsaw route. The first phase of the trial allowed passengers to send texts and use the internet, in the second phase, they will be able to make and receive phone calls.

© Cheapflights Ltd Craig McGinty