Air Canada today announced that it has begun to offer customers in-flight Wi-Fi connectivity on its aircraft. Currently offered on two Wi-Fi-equipped Airbus 319 aircraft, the Canadian carrier will begin to outfit additional planes starting in May once a final agreement is signed with Gogo, the Wi-Fi provider. Speeds should be “comparable to mobile broadband services available on the ground.”
“Air Canada continually seeks to enhance the travel experience and that is why we are pleased to be the first airline in Canada to offer in-flight Wi-Fi connectivity to customers flying over continental North America. In today’s connected world, our customers want to access email, mobile device applications and the internet wherever they are, both to increase their work productivity and expand their leisure options. The introduction of Wi-Fi across our narrow-body North American fleet will be another welcome amenity for customers, who already enjoy the award-winning service of North America’s Best Airline,” said Benjamin Smith, Executive Vice-President and Chief Commercial Officer.
Air Canada is aiming to have the service available on 29 planes by the end of the year. By the time the rollout is complete by December 2015, it expects to have Wi-Fi available across 130 aircraft. Among the planes outfitted will be its Airbus A319, A320 and A321 , Embraer 190 and 175 and Air Canada Express CRJ-705.
Pricing was not announced but promises to “be competitive with other in-flight Wi-Fi connectivity offerings.” Until June 30, it will be complimentary though according to a special promotion currently in place.
Source : Air Canada