Beam me up, Scotty

Lufthansa has announced plans to reintroduce internet service a number of long-distance flights by the first half of 2010.

The company deactivated in-flight internet service three years ago because of weak demand.

The offering, dubbed FlyNet, enables users to connect with wifi-enabled laptops or handhelds like the iPhone or BlackBerry, even while flying over large bodies of water. The satellite technology powering the service is provided by Japan's Panasonic, explains The New York Times.

In particular, FlyNet is aimed at business owners. For this reason connectivity will be the equivalent of a "powerful hot spot or high-end hotel," states CEO Wolfgang Mayruber.

Lufthansa did not reveal on which routes the service would appear first, nor what it would cost. But its previous internet service, provided in partnership with Boeing, cost about $10 per hour and $27 for a complete flight.