Austrian Airlines soars to new heights with free in-flight chat on short-medium hauls

Wednesday, January 24, 2024

Soaring above the clouds and now available at no cost – this exciting prospect is now a reality on Austrian Airlines’ short and medium-haul flights operated with A320 family aircraft equipped with WiFi. Austrian Airlines is introducing unlimited messaging through Austrian FlyNet® for all Travel ID users and Miles & More participants on flights featuring this aircraft model. For those without a Travel ID or Miles & More account, swift registration opens up the opportunity to effortlessly stay connected with the world during the flight. Moreover, the prices of all other FlyNet® packages on board have been slashed by up to 50 percent, making premium access available from a mere six euros.

Approximately 60 percent of Austrian Airlines’ A320 fleet already boasts broadband internet access, with plans to gradually equip the remaining aircraft in this fleet family with WiFi access by the fourth quarter of 2024. This enhancement is not exclusive to Austrian Airlines, as Lufthansa Airlines and SWISS, part of the Lufthansa Group, are also rolling out this upgrade. In total, over 150 additional short and medium-haul A320 and A220 aircraft within the Lufthansa Group will undergo the broadband internet access upgrade.

This advancement is made possible through the implementation of European Aviation Network (EAN) technology, facilitating broadband internet connectivity across all upgraded aircraft. The innovative hybrid technology utilizes a combination of satellite and ground components, featuring smaller and lighter antennas compared to previous systems, thereby reducing the overall system weight and subsequent kerosene consumption. This translates to a decrease in CO2 emissions as well.

The introduction of the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner marks the commencement of WiFi-enabled capabilities within Austrian Airlines’ long-haul fleet, starting with the arrival of the first Boeing 787-9 this year. Gradually, the Dreamliners will replace Austrian’s current long-haul fleet, comprised of Boeing B777 and B767 aircraft.

Michael Trestl, Chief Commercial Officer of Austrian Airlines, underscores the airline’s commitment to connectivity in an increasingly interconnected world. The initiative to offer free messaging and more appealing WiFi packages aligns with Austrian’s renowned hospitality, enhancing the in-flight experience for their valued guests.

« Back to Page

• New Airlines revolutionizing Indian aviation landscape

• Accelya and Korean Air Forge Pioneering Partnership to Revolutionize Airline Retailing