Aer Lingus is to introduce high-speed internet access on all short-haul flights next year.

The airline says its been investigating ways to bring Wi-Fi facilities to its customers for some time.

Passenger feedback suggests it is top of their wish-list when they fly.

The new service will be launched mid 2013 and will be available on Aer Lingus short-haul fleet including Airbus A319/A320 and A321.

Carrier to partner with US firm for service

Aer Lingus has signed a letter of intent with LiveTV which is a wholly-owned subsidiary of JetBlue Airways.

JetBlue is the U.S. partner airline of the Irish carrier.

Aer Lingus Chief Commercial Officer is Stephen Kavanagh.

"This initiative is in direct response to customer feedback, from both business and leisure customers alike" he said.

"Having direct access to in-cabin Wi-Fi is top of our customers’ wish-lists. We look forward to enhancing our customers’ experience and working for many years to come with LiveTV and Eutelsat" he added.

The letter of intent with LiveTV provides the framework for a definitive agreement to be negotiated with LiveTV, Aer Lingus says.