Qantas has introduced inflight WiFi on its Boeing 737-800 aircraft, bringing onboard internet access to domestic flights across Australia. Launched initially in beta on a single 737, this rollout begins a broader program that will reach 80 Qantas aircraft, with completion scheduled by the end of 2018.
The service combines broadband technology from Viasat with the NBN’s Sky Muster satellite network, delivering speeds up to ten times faster than many other onboard options by using available satellite capacity efficiently. The connection is maintained as the aircraft traverses Australia using the satellites’ 101 spot beams, designed to provide broad coverage and consistent performance.
“Inflight WiFi has been on our wish list for quite a while, but the size and geography of Australia made it challenging to provide a fast, reliable service. The NBN has made it possible and we’re pleased to tap into this capability,” said Alan Joyce, Qantas chief executive officer. He noted that the onboard technology represents a generation ahead of many systems in use worldwide and involves considerable complexity. For that reason, the airline is trialing the system on one aircraft initially to fine-tune performance before wider deployment across the domestic fleet.
Passengers boarding the equipped 737 can connect laptops, tablets, or smartphones to an onboard WiFi hotspot for a broadband experience suitable for streaming movies and live TV. Netflix and Spotify are already accessible, with Foxtel and Stan expected to be added in the following weeks. Voice calls remain prohibited to maintain a comfortable environment for all travelers.
Qantas frames this three-month trial as a beta test that will help evaluate network traffic, user behavior, and other operational factors in real-world conditions. Insights gained during this period will guide the final configuration and ensure a smooth installation process as the airline expands inflight WiFi to the remainder of its domestic fleet.
The initial rollout focuses on reliability and user experience, aiming to offer passengers meaningful connectivity on short- and medium-haul domestic routes. By partnering with established satellite and broadband providers, Qantas seeks to deliver faster speeds and more consistent service than typical airborne WiFi solutions, while addressing the unique coverage challenges posed by Australia’s vast geography.
As the program progresses, Qantas will continue to refine the service based on passenger feedback and operational data, with the goal of providing a dependable inflight internet option across its domestic network by the end of 2018.