KLM has begun installing Wi-Fi on a number of aircraft of its Boeing 737 fleet. The first Boeing 737-800 has already been equipped to offer the service.
To achieve this, KLM has partnered with Viasat, which will supply and maintain the necessary technology. Viasat’s Wi-Fi equipment will be installed on a total of eighteen Boeing 737-800s by the end of this year.
Boet Kreiken, EVP Customer Experience, KLM, commented: “KLM continues to invest in the onboard product, so that we can continue to meet our customers’ expectations and emerge from this crisis stronger than ever. Onboard Wi-Fi is an important service that customers want to enjoy for the entire duration of their journey. KLM’s internet service is already being used extensively on our intercontinental flights. Through this partnership with Viasat, we are ensuring that our customers can be online on European flights as well.”
The internet connection is made possible by connecting passenger devices directly to Viasat’s European satellite. During the flight, passengers will have a choice of three internet packages: Messaging, Surf and Stream. Messaging allows passengers to send and receive messages via WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, WeChat and other messaging platforms free of charge. Those who want to use more data can upgrade to the Surf or Stream packages. The Surf package offer enough data for online shopping and news articles, while the Stream package allows passengers to stream movies.
The internet packages are available to purchase via the KLM Portal, which also provides access to upgrades for connecting and return flights; service in the event of delays and cancellations; and services offered by KLM’s travel partners.
KLM already offers Wi-Fi on board its Boeing 787 and Airbus A330 fleet and is currently installing it on the Boeing 777 aircraft. So far, 81% of the carrier’s intercontinental fleet is equipped with internet connection. Passengers can expect to have internet access on board all intercontinental aircraft by the first quarter of 2022.
