AIR France and KLM have confirmed that they will jointly launch an in-flight connectivity programme on long-haul flights, with trials by early 2013.

Customers will be able to stay connected with the world through text messages or emails as well as Internet connection and ultimately through live broadcasts of TV programmes. Thanks to this new technology, Air France and KLM will give passengers access to a broad scope of data communications during the flight. On the specially designed in-flight website, a broad range of services will be offered free, such as latest news, TV channels relevant airline and destination information and a unique offer of online magazines.

The trial phase will be conducted over 2013 on two B777-300s, operated by each airline. During this period, travellers will be able to hook up to the Internet via their Wi-Fi-enabled smartphone, laptop or tablet PC at a fixed rate, as well as use their mobile phone for sms or e-mail, whatever their travel class. Customers will be asked for feedback, along with their expectations and suggestions on improving these new services to be used as input for further future deployment.

Jeanette Phillips
(jphillips@travelinfo.ca)

Travelinfo.ca

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