Most flight search engines tend to focus on getting users the best prices and times for their flight. But what if you could search for additional amenities, such as whether your plane had Wi-Fi on it?
This is the idea behind Google's recent partnership with flight info provider Routehappy. Users who search for a flight via Routehappy's search engine will also have access to a variety of other details, including "Happiness Factors". This should help customers to be more selective about which flights they choose. According to Digital Trends, Routehappy will provide information about aircraft model, seat type, cabin layout, integrated entertainment, power sockets, Wi-Fi provision and fresh food availability to the Google Flight search engine.
"We know people are looking for more information about the flights they're taking before they buy, so integrating Routehappy Happiness Factors is a great addition to Google Flights," Google Travel Director Gianni Marostica said in a press release. "Now even more people have access to comprehensive flight amenity data and useful flight search information."
This data will be extremely useful, considering that many airlines are trying to improve their amenities while also cutting back on costs. For example, some fliers might be willing to give up leg space if they have Wi-Fi available on the plane, while others may be willing to delay their flight if they get the leg space they need.
This shift in search engine occurred after the FCC approved higher in-flight Internet speeds. In the last year, airlines also pledged to provide better Internet connections in their planes, though that could lead to planes cancelling their back-seat entertainment systems.
