Is There In-flight Wi-Fi on Board Planes?

Flying can be a perfect time to relax, catch up on reading, or enjoy some in-flight entertainment. However, if you need to stay connected, you might wonder: Is there Wi-Fi on planes?

The good news is that many airlines now offer in-flight Wi-Fi, allowing you to browse the internet, send emails, and stay in touch while you’re thousands of feet in the air. This in-flight Wi-Fi can make your journey much more productive and enjoyable. Whether you are travelling for business or pleasure, having Wi-Fi on board aeroplanes can be a game-changer. Flight Wi-Fi services have improved significantly over the years, offering faster speeds and more reliable connections, ensuring you can stay connected throughout your journey.

Wi-Fi on planes: What to expect

As technology advances, many passengers now wonder, "Can aeroplanes have Wi-Fi?" The answer is a resounding yes. Wi-Fi onboard planes has become increasingly common, allowing passengers to stay connected during their flights. Whether you need to catch up on emails, browse the internet, or stream your favourite shows, having Wi-Fi on aeroplanes can significantly enhance your travel experience. However, the availability and quality of Wi-Fi can vary depending on the airline and the specific aircraft. Here’s what you can expect when trying to get online during your flight.

How to get Wi-Fi on a plane

Staying connected while flying has become easier as more airlines offer in-flight Wi-Fi services. Here's how you can access the internet while you're in the air:

1. Enable Wi-Fi on your device: Once the plane reaches cruising altitude, the flight crew will announce that it's safe to use electronic devices. At this point, you can enable Wi-Fi on your smartphone, tablet, or laptop. Remember to switch your device to airplane mode first, as required by airline regulations, before turning on Wi-Fi.

2. Connect to the airline's Wi-Fi network: Go to your device's Wi-Fi settings and look for the airline's specific network. The network name is usually branded with the airline's name, such as "DeltaWiFi" or "AA-Inflight." Select the network to connect.

3. Access the Wi-Fi portal and purchase a plan: Once connected to the network, open your web browser. You will typically be redirected automatically to the airline's Wi-Fi portal. If not, try entering any web address to trigger the redirection. On the portal, you will see various Wi-Fi plans available for purchase, which may include options for hourly access, the duration of the flight, or even a full day pass. Choose the plan that best suits your needs and follow the prompts to complete the purchase. Some airlines may also offer free access to messaging services or limited browsing, so be sure to explore your options.

4. Using loyalty programs or subscriptions: Certain airlines offer complimentary or discounted Wi-Fi access to frequent flyers or loyalty program members. Additionally, some credit cards or mobile providers include in-flight Wi-Fi as a perk. It’s worth checking if you qualify for any of these benefits before purchasing a plan.

5. Staying connected: After purchasing your plan, you should be connected to the internet and ready to browse, check emails, or stream content, depending on the bandwidth available. Keep in mind that in-flight Wi-Fi may not be as fast or reliable as ground-based internet, so heavy data activities like video streaming or downloading large files might be limited.

By following these steps, you can stay connected even at 30,000 feet, making your flight time more productive or entertaining.

Do planes have decent Wi-Fi?

Many modern planes are equipped with Wi-Fi. However, the availability and quality can vary significantly between airlines and even aircraft types. Some airlines offer free Wi-Fi, while others charge a fee. The speed and reliability of the connection can also vary, with some offering high-speed internet suitable for streaming, while others may only support basic browsing and email functions.

Wi-Fi on board can make a significant difference, especially for business travellers who need to stay connected or those who simply want to pass the time. As more airlines continue to upgrade their fleets with Wi-Fi capabilities, passengers can look forward to a more connected flying experience. Always check with your airline before your flight to understand the Wi-Fi options available and how to access them.

Which airlines offer Wi-Fi?

As Wi-Fi on board becomes more common, different airlines offer varying levels of service. Here’s a closer look at the availability of Wi-Fi across several popular airlines.

Do Jet2 planes have Wi-Fi?

Jet2 is known for its budget-friendly travel options, which typically do not include in-flight Wi-Fi. The airline focuses on providing low-cost flights without many of the additional amenities found on other carriers. This means that passengers on Jet2 flights should not expect to have access to Wi-Fi during their journey. If staying connected is a priority, it’s best to plan accordingly and download any necessary content before boarding.

British Airways Wi-Fi on plane

British Airways offers Wi-Fi on most of its long-haul flights and is gradually expanding this service to short-haul routes as well. The airline’s Wi-Fi service is branded as "BA Wi-Fi" and provides two levels of connectivity: a basic "Browse" option suitable for web browsing and email and a "Stream" option that supports more data-intensive activities like streaming videos and music. British Airways is committed to enhancing the passenger experience by continually upgrading its fleet to include the latest Wi-Fi technology.

Air Canada Wi-Fi

Air Canada offers Wi-Fi on most of their North American flights and selected international routes. The airline uses satellite-based technology to provide a reliable internet connection at cruising altitudes. Air Canada’s Wi-Fi service allows passengers to stay connected, whether for work or leisure, making it easier to manage emails, browse the internet, and even stream content during the flight. This service is a significant advantage for business travellers who need to remain productive while flying.

Do TUI planes have Wi-Fi?

TUI, another popular airline focusing on holiday packages, does not currently offer Wi-Fi on its flights. The airline’s model centres around providing all-inclusive travel experiences at competitive prices, which often means excluding certain amenities like in-flight Wi-Fi. Passengers flying with TUI should prepare for their journey by downloading entertainment or necessary documents before takeoff.

Do EasyJet planes have Wi-Fi?

EasyJet is a budget airline that does not offer Wi-Fi on its flights. By focusing on low-cost travel, EasyJet prioritises affordable fares over additional in-flight services. As a result, passengers looking to stay connected during their flight must make alternative arrangements, such as pre-downloading content or using mobile data before boarding.

KLM Wi-Fi

KLM offers Wi-Fi on many of their long-haul flights, allowing passengers to stay connected throughout their journey. The airline’s Wi-Fi service supports a range of activities, from basic web browsing and email to streaming video and music. KLM continues to expand its Wi-Fi offerings, ensuring that more flights across its network are equipped with reliable internet access. This commitment to connectivity helps passengers remain productive and entertained while travelling.

Air France Wi-Fi

Air France also provides Wi-Fi on many of their long-haul flights, similar to KLM. The airline offers different packages tailored to various needs, including a basic option for messaging and more comprehensive packages that allow for streaming and browsing. Air France is dedicated to enhancing the in-flight experience by continuously improving their Wi-Fi services, ensuring passengers can stay connected from takeoff to landing.

Each of these airlines offers different levels of Wi-Fi service, so it’s essential to check with your specific carrier before flying to understand what is available and how you can stay connected during your journey.

Flight disruptions and compensation

What should I do if my flight is delayed?

If your flight is delayed, gather all evidence, including boarding passes and delay notifications, and check your eligibility for compensation. You might be entitled to up to £520 (up to €600) under EC 261 regulations.

Staying connected while flying has become increasingly important, and many airlines are rising to meet this demand. While Wi-Fi on planes isn't universal yet, knowing what to expect and how to access it can make your flight more enjoyable and productive. Always check with your airline before flying to see if they offer in-flight Wi-Fi and understand the costs involved.

Flight cancellations

For cancelled flights, you may receive compensation if the airline informs you less than 14 days before departure. You’re also entitled to a full refund or an alternative flight.

Overbooking

If you’re denied boarding due to overbooking, you can claim compensation and should be provided with an alternative flight at no extra cost.

Lost luggage

Under the Montreal Convention, you can claim for lost or delayed luggage. The compensation can be up to £1,500, and you should file a claim as soon as possible, keeping all receipts and documentation.

Frequently asked questions about Wi-Fi on flights