Stagecoach Wi-Fi
Important update
From 26 October, we are temporarily switching off Wi-Fi on many of our buses. Like many organisations, we’re reviewing all aspects of our operation as we continue through the Covid-19 pandemic with a focus to make sure we can continue running safe and reliable services for you. We’ve found that many customers are not using the bus Wi-Fi, especially on shorter local bus journeys.
Where is Wi-Fi available?
You can still connect to our free Wi-Fi on the following routes and services:
South West
Falcon
https://www.stagecoachbus.com/promos-and-offers/national/stagecoach-wifi#
Not sure what WiFi has to do with Covid?
ReplyDeleteCost, and it is a surprisingly significant cost, which at this time of squeezed budgets need to be carefully monitored. My employers have been seeing W-Fi use drop over recent years as more and more people have significant data plans on their mobile contracts which often offer better speed than the on-board wi-fi. There is some demand on longer distance services though even there it is limited by the need to limit the volume of usage, many operators have to limit usage heavily as the costs spiral fast once you pass a certain point which is why many block access to streaming and similar high data requirement sites. There has never been significant demand on urban routes, it has often been more of a marketing gimic when launching than an actual useful service to customers and you have to question whether that is still a useful cost spend, very different to on-board chargers which are popular even on the shortest of journeys.
DeleteIt’s the cost. It may free to the passengers but it’s not free to the bus companies. At the moment every Penny counts, there has already been several bus operators that have gone to the wall.
DeleteIt will no doubt be argued that it's to do with cost-saving required as a result of the financial impact of Covid.
DeleteReducing operating costs to keep services on the road perhaps?
DeleteI assume this is simply a cost saving measure?
ReplyDeleteThere is a cost to provide WiFi on buses. With passenger numbers and revenue still significantly below usual levels, this is an economy measure along with the ending of printed timetable leaflets and the closure of the Travel Shops at Exeter and Paignton bus stations.
ReplyDeleteYes, and those two measures are also mistakes, in my opinion.
DeleteCost cutting
ReplyDeleteIf successful perhaps the seats will be taken out next?!
ReplyDeletewell they dont need as many at the moment...
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