Vietnamese airlines race to bring Wi-Fi to flights

Vietnam Airlines began testing in-flight connectivity on select Airbus A350 planes in early August, allowing passengers to browse the web, send emails, and access social media.

Unlimited messaging is priced at US$5, one-hour web access at $10, and full-flight access at $20.

The airline aims to extend Wi-Fi access to all A350s by December.

It also plans to expand the service to other widebody aircraft and, eventually, narrow-body planes depending on technical feasibility and market demand.

The service differs from the airline’s previous wireless in-flight entertainment system, which only offered preloaded programs.

During the initial trial, business-class passengers were offered unlimited web access for free, while all passengers received 15 minutes of complimentary messaging.

Passengers report the Wi-Fi works well for light browsing and messaging but it is less suitable for video streaming, as speed can vary with the number of users online.

Vietjet Air, meanwhile, is preparing to roll out Wi-Fi on its fleet of hundreds of aircraft.

In early 2025, the airline’s owner Nguyen Thi Phuong Thao, met U.S. technology and satellite providers, including SpaceX, to secure partnerships for satellite-based Internet services.

Vietjet is currently negotiating with multiple providers to equip its fleet with Wi-Fi.

Airline executives say in-flight Wi-Fi is becoming an increasingly important factor for customers, particularly on long-haul flights between Vietnam and destinations in Europe, the U.S., and South Korea.

Vietnam Airlines chairman Dang Ngoc Hoa said the service not only meets passenger demand but also represents a growing revenue stream, complementing income from baggage fees, meals, and other ancillary services.

Global trends suggest demand for Wi-Fi on commercial aircraft is rising.

More than 1,000 planes worldwide are equipped with in-flight Internet, and the number is expected to exceed 24,000 by 2035.

Major carriers including Emirates, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, Etihad Airways, Turkish Airlines, United Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Lufthansa, and Air France have integrated connectivity into their services.

Vietnam Airlines said the pilot program had been “very positive,” and expansion of the service is part of its broader strategy to enhance passenger experience and develop a “digital space in the air” where travelers can work, socialize, and enjoy entertainment.