KLM Wi-Fi portal supported by Viasat

Viasat is to install connectivity onboard 18 KLM Boeing 737-800 aircraft and 21 of its Embraer E195 aircraft.

The 737-800’s are expected to be outfitted by the end of 2021, and in service by early 2022s. Specifics for the Embraer E195 fleet will be announced at a later time. Both fleets will operate European flight routes only.

Viasat’s IFC equipment is currently installed on two KLM narrow-body Boeing aircraft. During the first week of service, currently ongoing, KLM will encourage passengers to trial the service free-of-charge and provide insights to further optimise the onboard Wi-Fi experience.

Boet Kreiken, EVP Customer Experience stated: “KLM continues to invest in the on-board product, so that we can continue to meet our customers’ expectations and emerge from this crisis stronger than ever. On-board 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.”

KLM will initially offer three in-flight connectivity packages—Messaging, Surf, and Stream—on all Viasat-equipped aircraft. The Messaging option will give all passengers 30-minutes of free text messaging via WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, WeChat, among other messaging apps. The Surf and Stream options, which can be purchased in-flight, will give passengers the ability to do more on board, with options to surf the internet/email as well as enjoy full video and audio streaming.

KLM already offers Wi-Fi on board the Boeing 787 and Airbus A330 fleets and is currently installing it on the Boeing 777 aircraft. As it stands now, 81% of the intercontinental fleet is equipped with an Internet connection. Passengers are expected to have Internet access on board all intercontinental aircraft by the first quarter of 2022.

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