Train operator GNER has seen an impressive passenger response to the introduction of wireless networking capabilities on its trains.

The company has just finished fitting out its eighth train with the wireless technology and says it will have 13 installed by Christmas.

It remains the only UK in operator to offer wireless networking for its passengers, although Virgin Trains is testing a similar service.

Passenger uptake has so far been strong: Peter Kingsland, a consultant at telecom advisory firm BWCS, says GNER has been reporting more than 50 per cent growth week-on-week as the service is rolled out across more trains.

'Wireless is part of the way for train companies to recreate the golden era of rail travel, along with better food, more efficient service and so on,' he said.

Providing that it successfully retains its network license, GNER is committed to investing £30m to install wireless access in all 302 coaches in its electric train fleet, working with Swedish wireless specialist Icomera.

The train operator provides free wireless access to first class passengers, while giving economy class travellers a range of access options ranging from £2.95 for 30 minutes of usage to £9.95 for three hours.

As a result, not only are more passengers paying to use the service, but the company also believes that nearly three per cent of standard fare customers are upgrading to first class because of the free access.

And as customers get used to the service, they're spending more time online, with average usage climbing from 45 minutes in June to about 70 minutes by the end of August.

'Obviously its early days for the service, but these figures are very encouraging. Certainly the movement we have seen towards first class travel, coupled with the increasing daily usage, speaks volumes for the potential power of the service,' said GNER director Shaun Mills.

The service is also good for attracting additional customers: one in four passengers polled said they would travel more often with GNER if it wireless technology is availilable on all of its trains.

'The idea that you can shop, work or relax online while travelling at high speed and in comfort on one of the most picturesque routes in Britain is rapidly capturing the public imagination,' said Mills.