Following successful trials in domestic lounges, the program is expected to supply Qantas Club passengers around the Asia Pacific region with fast, modem-less access to the Internet on their own notebook computers.
Qantas says members and guests will have complimentary access to an easy-to-use, high-speed (115kbps) Internet connection.
According to NetPort, advanced technology means users do not need a modem, special software, an ISP account or new computer settings. A NetPort Connection Kit with instructions and cable will be available from the service desk staff Desk in each lounge.
Travellers simply connect via the serial port on their notebook computer using a cable in the base of table lamps in the lounges.
Alison Styles, NetPort's sales and marketing director for the South Pacific, said business people needed an easy, secure and cost-effective method of staying in touch while travelling.
"Our partnership with Qantas will keep passengers right up to date before and between flights, in the comfort of the Qantas Club lounges," Styles said.
"We are providing a vastly superior Internet connection compared to dialling up via a modem and phone line."
Under the initial 12 month contract, NetPort will install the Australian-developed technology at 16 key Qantas departure lounges in Australia and in international Qantas Club lounges in Bangkok, Hong Kong, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Manila, Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch.
