British Airways to provide free high-speed in-flight internet through space-based partnership
Flyers flying with British Airways will soon use fast internet onboard without charge due to a major partnership with Elon Musk's space company.
Complimentary and High-speed Internet for All
British Airways announced that the free, “fast and dependable” internet offering via the satellite provider becomes accessible to customers in economy, premium economy, or premium cabins as of the coming month.
Widespread Implementation Across Several Flight Operators
The parent organization of British Airways, International Airlines Group, announced it had secured an deal involving SpaceX to offer connectivity services for 500-plus planes operated by its airlines, including the Irish airline, Iberia, plus Vueling.
Seamless Internet from Gate through Landing
The airline noted that the implementation of the technology was included in a multi-billion pound “upgrade” plan that will provide uninterrupted internet access to flyers from the gate to landing, also when they are flying above seas or remote regions.
Passengers may link several devices and do not require a separate access code.
“Gamechanging for the airline as well as our customers, enhancing their experience in the air with us by giving them smooth connectivity from start to finish.”
Existing Internet Options
Limited wifi service is presently provided for British Airways flyers on the majority of its aircraft using the .air system.
Participants of BA’s frequent flyer program may dispatch messages and text-based messages during flights at no cost, whereas passengers who want to access music, films, or movies during their flight who are not travelling in first class can expect to be charged from four pounds ninety-nine and £21.99 for one wifi package.
The Satellite Network
SpaceX uses a constellation comprising thousands of orbiting devices and it's run under Elon Musk’s company.
Latest Upgrades at British Airways
The airline's executive team has been focusing to turn the airline again after years with budget reductions, system failures, labor disputes, and staff cuts.
British Airways explained that use of artificial intelligence contributed to the airline to reach the airline's punctuality at peak performance since 2012.
Profit Results
Earlier this year, British Airways reported a jump in operating profits for the first half of this year, assisting the parent company profit higher.
IAG is set to release the results covering the three months from July to September on Friday.
Recent Satellite Partnerships
British Airways’ announcement arrives days after telecom carrier Virgin Media O2 announced it was partnering alongside the satellite provider to improve mobile network connectivity in rural parts across the United Kingdom, enabling consumers to easily connect handsets using space-based systems if there is no traditional mobile signal is available.
