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AirTran Airways announced Tuesday that it will offer passengers wireless broadband Internet access on every flight.

The discount carrier is partnering with Aircell to offer passengers inflight Internet service on its entire fleet of Boeing 737 and 717 aircraft. AirTran says all 136 of its jets will be equipped with Gogo Inflight Internet service by mid-summer.

Bob Fornaro

"Installing Wi-Fi on every one of our aircraft is another great example of what sets AirTran Airways apart from our competitors," said Bob Fornaro, chairman, president and CEO of AirTran Airways.

"Giving business and leisure travelers a consistent, high-quality experience at a low price is a top priority. We feel that Wi-Fi on every flight gives us a distinct competitive advantage over other airlines."

Passengers on AirTran will have access to email, instant messaging, and corporate networks via Wi-Fi enabled laptops, smartphone and PDAs. Inflight Internet will be available for a small fee based on the length of the flight.

According to Aircell's website, passengers with handheld devices can have Internet access for $7.95. Laptop users can connect for $9.95 on flights lasting less than three hours and for $12.95 on flights over three hours. 

Other airlines that offer Aircell's Gogo Internet service include American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines and Virgin America.