Norwegian Airlines is introducing free WiFi across its long-haul network. The carrier, which made complimentary internet available on all European flights in 2011, will now extend a free service option to passengers on intercontinental routes.
The complimentary connection provides sufficient bandwidth for web browsing, email and social media. For customers who want to stream video or require higher speeds, an upgraded package is available starting at $14.95 for three hours.
The inflight system, branded CabinConnect, operates via the Inmarsat Global Aviation satellite network and requires an antenna mounted on the aircraft fuselage. Norwegian will roll the service out progressively across its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner and 737 MAX fleets, with approximately half of the Dreamliners expected to be online by 2020.
Norwegian currently serves more than 60 long-haul routes linking Europe with the United States, South America and Asia, and the new connectivity offering will be available across these routes as installation continues.
“We’re continuously improving the inflight customer experience and we’re delighted to be the first airline offering free WiFi for the full duration of long-haul flights,” said Boris Bubresko, vice president for business development at Norwegian Airlines.
He added that millions of passengers have already benefited from free WiFi on European flights, and that extending reliable, high-speed internet to long-haul services will help personalise and enhance the travel experience for customers.