Air France-KLM launch social network

The first social network for airlines will be launched by the end of this week by the Air France-KLM group, Le Figaro reported Tuesday.

Web site www.bluenity.com will allow passengers to engage with others on the same flight or individuals heading for the same destination. The Web 2.0 site will be available in English, French and Dutch. It may be accessed once the flight is reserved and users are in possession of an electronic ticket.

Users may opt for a business or a leisure profile, demonstrate what countries they know and ask not to be disturbed during the flight. A link to Facebook information is also predicted. However, there are some technical complications. The wireless Internet connection available at airports may be difficult and expensive, according to Le Figaro.

Public material like text or photographs will be moderated prior to being posted while private exchange of data will remain confidential, according to Le Figaro. So far, no airlines have invested intensively in the Web since it requires a network obtained through a satellite.

Air France-KLM Marketing director Patric Roux said he was expecting 300,000 users within a year after the launch, a figure that may be “modest” compared to the company’s 75 million passengers per year.

Web developer Trinity helped to create the social networking site. The project’s cost was not revealed, but Le Figaro speculated that it is at least €1 million.