SWISS Soars ahead: Short-haul fleet now offers high-speed in-flight internet

Wednesday, January 24, 2024

SWISS has outlined plans to progressively equip its entire short-haul aircraft fleet with broadband internet access starting from the winter of 2024/2025. The installation initiative will encompass 59 aircraft from the Airbus A220 and A320-family. Following the model established for its long-haul fleet, SWISS will extend complimentary internet chat access to passengers on European flights. Moreover, the airline aims to provide enticing product offers for extended online functionalities, including email, web browsing, and social media usage.

Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS) is set to introduce a comprehensive broadband internet access system for its customers across all routes. The gradual implementation of the necessary technology for the entire SWISS short-haul aircraft fleet is scheduled to commence in the winter of 2024/2025. Aligned with the broader rollout strategy within the Lufthansa Group, SWISS plans to equip 30 Airbus A220 aircraft and 29 Airbus A320/A321 family aircraft. SWISS had previously equipped its long-haul fleet with broadband internet access in stages since 2016.

Free internet chat access will be extended to passengers on short-haul services, mirroring the offerings on the long-haul fleet, where travelers can utilize chat and messenger services like WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger to exchange text and picture messages without incurring additional charges during their flight. For a fee, passengers will also have the option to surf the web, use email, access social media platforms, and utilize streaming and VPN services.

Heike Birlenbach, Chief Commercial Officer at SWISS, emphasizes the importance of enabling customers to stay connected for both professional and personal reasons while on the move. The airline is enthusiastic about meeting this demand on shorter flights, providing a more comprehensive and connected experience for passengers.

To deliver inflight internet access on short-haul flights, SWISS will utilize a new hybrid technology known as the European Aviation Network (EAN). This innovative system combines a satellite link with ground-based radio technology, ensuring a reliable broadband connection. Notably, the EAN technology is designed with sustainability in mind, featuring a significantly lighter on-board system compared to previous technologies. This reduction in weight translates to lower fuel consumption and, consequently, reduced carbon dioxide emissions, aligning with SWISS’s commitment to more environmentally friendly practices.

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