Unicom JV gives wings to Wi-Fi

China United Network Communications Ltd unveiled a joint venture with local partners on Tuesday, as the country's second-largest telecom carrier by subscribers scrambles to offer in-flight Wi-Fi services.

The State-owned company said UnicomAirNet, with a registered capital of 200 million yuan ($29.06 million), will develop communication systems and offer technological support to enable passengers to surf the internet onboard planes.

The new venture is set up by China Unicom's broadband network unit, Chinese on-train Wi-Fi service provider Hangmei Online, and a unit of Sichuan Haite High-Tech Co Ltd, which repairs aircraft equipment.