Memo to JetBlue: Get Out of the WiFi Business

The VAR Guy loves JetBlue. And he’s willing to put up with their flight delays out of JetBlue’s terminal at JFK International Airport. But the “free” WiFi networks within JetBlue’s terminals are beyond bad. They’ve been pathetic for more than a year. Now, it’s time for JetBlue to change course.

The VAR Guy is willing — yes, willing — to pay for WiFi access at airports. To him, reliable WiFi in public locations is a mission critical application.Apparently, JetBlue doesn’t agree.

More than a year ago, The VAR Guy blogged about how lame JetBlue’s free WiFi service was. Slow, dropped or non-existent connections were the norm at Jet Blue terminals in New York; Long Beach, Calif., and other areas.

At the time, JetBlue apologized and said improvements were on the way. It’s been a year, and The VAR Guy is still waiting … and waiting.

At this point, JetBlue would be wise to get out of the WiFi business. Fast. Please, JetBlue: Outsource this system to Boingo, T-Mobile or another qualified WiFi hotspot provider. The airline is hurting its reputation by ignoring the fact that its WiFi service is an embarrassment.

The VAR Guy would spend a few more hours ranting, but he’s too worried about his WiFi connection failing here at JFK.