United’s Unrealistic Polaris Promise and 3 Other Aviation Trends This Week

Throughout the week we post dozens of original stories, connecting the dots across the travel industry, and every weekend we sum it all up. This weekend roundup examines aviation.

For all of our weekend roundups, go here.

>>Both Qantas and Virgin Australia should have Wi-Fi available on all domestic flights by the end of 2018. While travelers want to stay connected, they probably won’t pay for Wi-Fi, but might choose flights on the basis of internet coverage, especially on longer routes: Qantas and Virgin Australia Battle Over In-Flight Wi-Fi Rollouts

>>A first-time business class flyer might love the dog-and-pony show United Airlines promised with its Polaris service. But your average frequent flyer prefers a more consistent experience, even if it’s not as strong: United CEO Munoz’s Polaris Promise Never Matched Reality

>>United Airlines overpromised with its Polaris business class. Instead of rethinking business class, it should have focused on providing a simple and consistent product: United Reboots Its Polaris Business Class With a Focus on Consistency

>>If fuel prices rise considerably, airfares will need to increase as well, so this would be bad for consumers. But investors might cheer: Airlines May Want Higher Fuel Prices Despite How Contrarian That Seems