Singapore Airlines (SIA) has launched a major, US$50 million project to roll-out in-flight internet and mobile data services across its fleet.
Following a recent soft launch, 14 SIA aircraft are now equipped with Wi-Fi and mobile services, including five Airbus A340s deployed SIA’s longest direct routes between Singapore and New York and Los Angeles.
Now, through a partnership with OnAir, the technology will be rolled out across all of SIA’s long-haul Airbus A380, A340 and Boeing 777-300ER aircraft over the next two years. This will enable passengers to access the internet and send and receive emails and text messages.
SIA said that services would be offered on routes subject to regulatory approvals from individual countries. A map showing the services’ availability over specific countries will be published in the airline’s in-flight magazine.
“As our customers’ preferences towards entertainment and connectivity options change over time, so must we. Mobile and internet connectivity capabilities are just the start, enabling our customers to stay connected even when flying at 35,000 feet. There will be much more investment in the months and years ahead to keep our customers both connected and entertained,” said SIA’s Senior Vice President Product & Services, Tan Pee Teck.
“We have always been a leader in embracing technology and are confident that these initiatives will both meet and exceed our customers’ high expectations, keeping us at the forefront of airline product innovation,” he added.
In addition to the investment in in-flight connectivity services, SIA is upgrading its cabin products including new screen and handset technology for its in-flight entertainment systems.
