Air India Launches In-Flight Wi-Fi on Domestic Routes
Air India has made a significant leap in enhancing passenger experience by becoming the first Indian airline to offer in-flight Wi-Fi services on its domestic routes. Starting from January 1, 2025, all domestic flights operated by Air India, specifically those flying on its Airbus A350, Boeing 787-9, and select Airbus A321neo aircraft, will provide complimentary Wi-Fi access during the introductory period. This move promises to revolutionise air travel in India, offering travellers the ability to stay connected and productive while flying within the country.
The introduction of in-flight Wi-Fi is part of Air India’s broader effort to modernise its services and improve the overall customer experience. With this new feature, passengers can browse the internet, check social media, send messages to friends and family, or stay updated on work – all while in the air. The airline’s Chief Customer Experience Officer, Rajesh Dogra, emphasised that connectivity is an integral part of modern travel, enabling passengers to share experiences in real time or increase their productivity while travelling. For Air India passengers, accessing the Wi-Fi service is straightforward. Once onboard, passengers can connect to the ‘Air India Wi-Fi’ network using their smartphones, tablets, or laptops. After selecting the network, they will be redirected to the airline’s portal, where they will need to enter their PNR number and last name to access the service. The system allows passengers to connect multiple devices simultaneously once the aircraft reaches an altitude of 10,000 feet. However, connectivity may depend on factors like satellite availability, flight routes, and bandwidth usage.
Air India has already been offering Wi-Fi connectivity on long-haul flights aboard its Airbus A350, Boeing 787-9, and select A321neo aircraft. This service has proven popular among international travellers, connecting passengers to the internet during flights to destinations such as New York, London, Paris, and Singapore. Now, the service will be available on domestic routes, offering a new level of convenience for Indian travellers who often fly within the country for business or leisure. The introduction of in-flight Wi-Fi is also expected to set Air India apart from other carriers, giving it a competitive edge in the rapidly evolving airline industry. For many passengers, the ability to access the internet during flights is no longer a luxury but an expectation. The ability to connect to work emails, attend virtual meetings, or stay in touch with loved ones is an essential service that enhances the overall flying experience.
Looking ahead, Air India plans to expand this service to more aircraft in its fleet over time, ensuring that more passengers can enjoy seamless connectivity across both domestic and international routes. The airline also hopes to make this service available on additional aircraft in the near future, reinforcing its commitment to enhancing passenger comfort and convenience. As Air India continues to lead the way in providing top-notch in-flight services, the introduction of Wi-Fi on domestic routes is just the beginning of its efforts to revolutionise air travel in India. This initiative signals a new era of connectivity and service that will undoubtedly be welcomed by the airline’s passengers, further cementing Air India’s position as a forward-thinking and customer-centric carrier.