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Never Leave Your Wingman

Ever wanted to join the mile high club? There’s an app for that and its name is Wingman: a new application that aims to be the “Tinder of the skies.”

The apps’ purpose is to connect people that are at the same airport, or even on the same flight (for better or for worse). The application is still in its beta stage, but is supposed to have a design similar to that of Tinder. Users can view the profiles of prospective travelers by entering their necessary flight information. After that, users will be introduced to other “wingmen” – be they at the airport, or on the same flight. If both users select the other person as attractive, they will be “matched” and able to message to each other.

Although Wingman is a promising idea, there seem to be many executional flaws with the software and service. For instance, take your average Boeing 747 (which can carry roughly 500 passengers). Most of the passengers don't fit the niche demographic required by Wingman. Aside from young businessmen (and women), many passengers are children, married couples, or simply couldn't care less about an in-flight fling. Furthermore, those that are single and ready to mingle might not want to pay for the in-flight Wi-Fi (which is currently required for the app to function). Thus, the small pool of viable candidates may yield minimal returns for those looking to join the exclusive mile high club. Not to mention the inevitable awkwardness faced by those who get rejected. However, if the app becomes popular, it could amass a cult following.

Wingman further proves that entrepreneurs and engineers are pursuing unorthodox ambitions. I mean we already have dating websites designed specifically for farmers, Amish People, and singles with food allergies. What’s next? Dating applications designed for people waiting at the DMV? However, where there is demand there is a supplier, and if you’re looking to cross another thing off your bucket list, Wingman is here to help.