Qantas, the Australian flag carrier, has announced updates on its inflight WiFi service, which will not be available on most international flights until next year. The airline currently provides WiFi on certain domestic and select international routes, but patrons flying long-haul will have to wait until January 2025.
According to Qantas, the airline is collaborating with provider Viasat to equip its fleet of 16 jets, primarily on flights to Asia, with the necessary hardware for satellite-based WiFi services. Although some of the planes have already been retrofitted, the complimentary service won’t be online by the previously anticipated end of this month. A Qantas spokesperson explained, “The fitout of our A330 fleet with the necessary WiFi hardware is on track, and we are working with our technology provider to make this available for customers on international flights from late January 2025.”
Despite the delay for international flights, some destinations currently boast inflight WiFi. Passengers flying on WiFi-enabled Airbus A330-200D aircraft to locations including Bali, Singapore, and Manila can access the internet throughout their flight across Australia, though service stops once they leave the continent.
Most of Qantas’ domestic fleet has already been outfitted with WiFi through the NBN Sky Muster satellite network, which covers Australia and promises average connection speeds of 10-15 Mbps. A range of aircraft including the Airbus A330-200D, Boeing 737-800, and Airbus A220-300 provide internet access.
The implementation of fast, free WiFi on long-haul flights is gaining momentum thanks to Qantas' partnership with Viasat. The A330-200LR was the first international aircraft to receive the latest Viasat antenna. Qantas notes the significance of this collaboration, stating, "We’ve been waiting until global satellite technology could deliver similar quality connection to the one Qantas domestic customers enjoy, even in areas of the world where it was previously impossible." Once all necessary equipment is fitted and activated across the A330-200s, upcoming retrofitting of existing Dreamliners, Airbus A330-300s, and Superjumbos will begin from early 2025.
Retrofitting the A380s presents its own challenges, requiring installation of new radomes and antennas on the aircraft's roof. Meanwhile, the later-acquired 787s will be delivered ready for WiFi setup. A Qantas representative confirmed, "Our exciting new aircraft arrivals, including the Airbus A350 and Boeing 787, will also come equipped with Wi-Fi upon delivery, meaning you can keep the conversation going, the entertainment flowing, and your productivity soaring - no matter where you are flying to." This capability proves significant for the airline's upcoming direct flights from Sydney to New York and London, which will last over 20 hours.
Meanwhile, the competitive spirit among Australia's airlines is intensifying as fare wars erupt. On Boxing Day, Qantas and Virgin Australia launched significant sales promotions, with Qantas dropping fares as low as $39 to attract travelers. With both airlines vying for market share, customers can expect increased competition, especially during the festive travel season.
The Boxing Day sales come at a strategic time when many Australians are eager to secure travel deals. With Qantas being one of the top choices for international travel, the price reductions are seen as not just beneficial for consumers, but also as necessary moves to remain competitive.
Industry analysts suggest the timing of these sales supports immediate and long-term growth for airlines, offering more accessible travel options across the region. Passengers are reminded to subscribe for updates on fares and promotions, as the race for customer loyalty escalates amid changing travel patterns.
With high hopes on the horizon for improved inflight connectivity and aggressive pricing strategies, Qantas aims to maintain its position as Australia's leading airline. Striving for enhanced customer experience across its domestic and international networks, the moment is pivotal for the airline as it adapts to the fast-evolving travel environment.
