Bucket-shop airline Ryanair is to allow the use of mobile phones on its flights and is starting to equip its entire fleet, totaling more than 170 aircraft, with the necessary gear over the next 18 months.

Passengers will be able to make and receive calls and text messages on their own phones, and to send and receive e-mails and download attachments just as they would on the ground.

The service is being provided by OnAir and will cost £1.50 to £3 per minute, with text messages costing 40p-plus and e-mails £1 to £2 from mobiles and other smartphones.

The outfit does not want to make much money on the deal, it earns far too much money of punters who dare to travel with a small suitcase. But it is hoped it will eventually open up other important revenue streams from activities such as gambling, entertainment and advertising.