Is There Wi-Fi on Planes? Million Dollar Question Now Answered

People today, across the globe, are incorporating innovations in technology into their everyday lives. Their demand for being accessible from anywhere around the world is not too much to ask for. Keeping this in mind, the internet facility via Wifi is being made available anywhere and everywhere. From small cafes to airports, all are well-equipped with this facility nowadays. However, there are still places where the Wifi needs to put its limitations to the test, like in the air. 

Though there are certain airlines that make Wifi connectivity possible in return for some fees, there are still only a few airplanes to offer the wifi facility free of cost, like Turkish Airlines. So, is there wi-fi on planes? Yes, there is! However, the internet service up there might lag in quality, which may cause the inconvenience of frequent disconnections to the passenger onboard. 

In-flight Wifi via Third-Party IP

Is there Wi-fi on planes? Don’t stress yourself with this question. For boarding a flight no longer means disconnection from the world for a short span of time. Thanks to the hard work put in by the internet providers who connect us from the ground. You can now have a satellite-based in-flight Wifi connection, which can enable you to connect with different entertainment resources available online. Speaking of which, the facility is accessible through forming a satellite connect between the airline carrier and the external internet service provider like Starlink/Viasat. However, as mentioned previously, there will be a few shortcomings to this service, like slow speed. 

With in-flight wifi, you will be able to receive and/or send texts over your mobile data via online messaging systems such as iMessage or WhatsApp only. But if you want to just have a quick glance at your emails or social media, this service might get you through. 

Top 5 Airlines as the Best-in-class Wifi Connectivity Provider 

In this section, you will study a well-curated list of the top 5 airlines in the world that provide good internet facilities even in the clouds for some or no charge. So, if you are wondering whether there is Wifi on the plane you are planning to board, you can jot down the key highlights of the following airlines –

• Delta Airlines 
• Air China
• United Airlines
• Southwest Airline
• Hawaiian Airlines

Now, let’s explore in depth the internet facilities available on different airlines.

Delta Airlines

Delta Airlines does provide an Onboard Wifi service to transform your travel experience and make it interesting. They bring about free and fast internet service by the name – Delta Sync Wifi via the T-Mobile Go5G plan, but only on domestic flights. Also, the service is for passengers securing a SkyMiles Membership. That being said, you may enjoy 24 hours of streaming free of charge with this Go5G plan.

Apart from this, the free service, if extended to international flights, may face a different Wifi usage experience. Besides, there is a special provision made for those who don’t want to take up the SkyMiles Membership. Such passengers may purchase the Wifi Flight Pass.

AIRCRAFTS WITH FREE WIFI – A319, A321ceo, 737-800, A220-300, A220-300

AIRCRAFTS WITH PAID WIFI – A330-200, A330-900, A330-300, 757-300, 767-400

Check your aircraft for free/paid in-flight wifi on the airline’s official website.

Air China 

You may avail of the in-flight Wifi on boarding the Airbus 350, B777, and A321neo aircraft of Air China, operated by the airline itself. The facility can be availed with the three options available, namely –

• Complimentary Wi-fi onboard, 
• Wifi Onboard Mileage Redemption scheme, and
• In-flight Purchase (in cash)

While complimentary wifi is only available for routes ranging from North America, Europe, New Zealand, or Australia for Airbus A350 & B777, the Wifi Onboard Mileage Redemption Scheme provides you with the internet mid-air using the travel credits received under the airline’s loyalty programme. Besides, if you have made an in-flight purchase, you will be able to use the internet for a specific duration in return for some payment in cash. Speaking of which, there are different packages made to suit your needs for which you can refer to on the official website. 

United Airlines

The airline keeps you well-connected throughout your journey with the United Wifi^SM. But, this access to the internet will be chargeable as per the policies of United Airlines. And, generally, a passenger is suggested a Wifi Day Pass, which is applicable for the particular flight duration only. On the contrary, if you are a frequent flyer, you can also avail of the Wifi subscription, which is valid for a longer time period and not limited to only a single flight booking. 

With a United Wifi Day Pass or subscription, you will be able to send and receive texts online through apps such as iMessage and WhatsApp, to name a few. It will also enable you to surf the internet with ease and even stream some live videos on selected flights.

As far as the pricing is concerned, on a US domestic flight/short-distance international flight, you will be charged differently depending on your passenger status. If you are a member of MileagePlus, you will be charged around 8$/800 travel credit for the Wifi. And, 10$ will be charged if you are a non-member. 

For the rest of the flights, charges for Internet usage would vary with the destination you are heading to and the duration of your flight.

Southwest Airlines

Get full-on entertainment onboard when you travel with Southwest. If you ask Is there Wi-fi on planes? The answer would be a “Yes”, because Southwest is one of the airlines that actually provides in-flight wifi. Speaking of which, the free service shall allow one to access Live TV, Music on iHeart Radio, followed by routine messaging via iMessage or WhatsApp.  Further, this wifi connectivity will be chargeable at 8$ on a single device for full web accessibility. Additionally, the wifi is free for the Airline’s Business Select Customers and an A-list Preferred member, if any.  

In order to provide a good browsing experience, Southwest Airlines has prohibited access to certain heavy websites and applications like Netflix. 

Hawaiian Airlines

Stay online throughout your journey with Hawaiian Airlines with Starlink Wifi, available on Hawaiian Airlines’ A330 and A321neo. The Starlink Wifi gives you a smooth, high-speed internet experience on flights ranging between the Continental U.S. and Hawaii, without any charge. You can now play live games with your friends on the ground or check your emails, all with the premium services of Starlink, the satellite-based internet provider. 

Key Takeaways!

Onboard Wifi is something that now falls within the reach of the customers choosing air travel. Prior to booking a flight, you don’t need to ponder about low or absolutely no connectivity while you are in the air. The reason is that different airlines offer different in-flight experiences. While some may provide you with instant Wifi coverage, others may offer some other in-flight experiences, like a comfortable cabin experience.  

If staying connected is all you need, consider booking your flight with one of the above airlines that have a really good Onboard Wifi service. 

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