Airlines Compete for Free High-Speed In-Flight Wi-Fi

AFP

Japan: Free onboard Wi-Fi has become a competitive battleground among the world’s leading airlines as high-speed internet finally delivers quality comparable to home connectivity.

Delta, United, Japan Airlines, and Air France are among the carriers recently making headlines with announcements regarding the introduction or extension of free Wi-Fi services.

Quality Over Charges

In stark contrast to the growing trend of charging for previously included services, airlines are now promising high-speed Wi-Fi at no cost. Fabien Pelous, head of client experience at Air France, stated that the airline’s plan to introduce free Wi-Fi in 2025 represents a significant improvement for clients, admitting that prior service “was not satisfactory.”

The initial experiments with in-flight internet began in 2004 with Boeing and Lufthansa, leading to the development of products by companies like ViaSat, Panasonic, and Thales that now equip hundreds of planes.

The emergence of low-orbit satellite constellations, such as Starlink, has been described as a “game changer,” significantly reducing latency and enabling services like video streaming.

Balancing Free Services

However, the term “free” may be relative. Delta, United, and Air France currently offer complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi only to members of their loyalty programs, which require no cost to sign up. This approach provides airlines with new marketing opportunities, as noted by Joe Leader, director general of the Airline Passenger Experience Association.

For Air France, the installation of Starlink Wi-Fi on over 220 planes will take time and incur substantial costs, aligning with the airline’s positioning as a high-end carrier. Pelous expressed confidence that in three to four years, acceptable connections aboard planes will be the norm.

Connectivity Etiquette

The introduction of onboard broadband presents challenges for airlines and flight attendants, who must manage passenger behavior. Experts warn against letting in-flight connectivity become a disruptive force, stressing the importance of maintaining decorum in the sky.