MAKATI CITY, Philippines--Globe Telecom has confirmed industry rumors that it is offering an in-flight roaming service for its postpaid subscribers.

"In line with the company's thrust to provide subscribers with relevant and easy-to-use services, Globe has entered into an agreement with a new roaming partner, AeroMobile, that will allow Globe postpaid subscribers to enjoy airline roaming," Globe said in reply to queries by INQUIRER.net.

Jones Campos, Globe assistant vice president for public relations, said in a telephone interview that Globe will start offering the in-flight roaming service through Air France and Emirates airlines.

Negotiations with other airlines were underway, Jones added.

Rival Smart Communications also announced a similar in-flight service last December 2007 with Air France, according to Ramon Isberto, head of public affairs of Smart.

Globe said the agreement with AeroMobile will make possible mobile phone services for customers while they are on board selected airlines. "Subscribers can make and receive calls and SMS as long as the subscriber's mobile phone is GSM capable," the local mobile telecommunications firm said.

Globe said that the in-flight service would not affect the aircraft's systems.

The AeroMobile system will not affect any other aircraft systems or sub-systems since it operates at a minimum power level, AeroMobile said on its website.