National broadband company Internode has launched a wireless hotspot at Newcastle Airport in NSW, which provides free wireless Web browsing for passengers and staff throughout the terminal.

Newcastle Airport joins Darwin International Airport and Cibo Espresso bars in Queensland among the interstate sites for Internode Wireless. Internode also provides free wireless Web browsing throughout the Adelaide central business district and at Adelaide’s $260 million airport terminal.

Internode turned on its wireless coverage at Newcastle Airport in February. The hotspot covers virtually the entire terminal, including departure lounges as well as food and drink catering areas.

Passengers can use laptop computers or other devices to detect the network and follow a step-by-step guide to get online in no time. Guests in the departure lounge can use a work bench with seating and convenient access to power points.

Passengers can use the free service to browse the Web, to view email and check hotel vacancies or other travel requirements. Internode customers have access to the full range of Internet services.

Newcastle Airport CEO Paul Hughes said the airport was delighted to bring a major benefit to the travelling public visiting the region. “Whilst this new service was aimed at our business travellers, it became clear soon after its installation that it is also being used by passengers travelling for leisure purposes,” he said.

Internode National Sales Manager Daryl Knight said the wireless hotspot provided a “welcome mat” for passengers at Newcastle Airport. “Newcastle is a major city in NSW and the gateway to the Hunter Valley, with nearly 900,000 passengers using it in 2006,” he said.

“With the wide availability of sub-$1000 wireless notebooks and Wi-Fi phones, travellers increasingly arrive at an airport and want to use the Web to check bookings or other travel arrangements. The Internode hotspot makes this a quick and easy process for any passenger or member of the public.”

Internode is one of the most successful broadband companies in Australia. As its competitors struggle to cope with growth, Internode has posted record growth rates as well as consistent profitability since the dawn of the broadband age in 2000-01.

About Internode www.internode.on.net

Internode is an Internet age carrier committed to using broadband technology to redefine the national telecommunications environment. The Australian-owned company is a trailblazer that delivers the cost and convenience of broadband telecommunications to individuals and businesses throughout Australia.

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