British Airways has added a free tier to its in-flight internet service, becoming the latest airline to link it to its loyalty programme. Passengers on equipped aircraft will soon be able to access an in-flight ‘messaging’ option by logging in with their Executive Club account. The program will launch on April 3, 2024 and is expected to be available to all onboard aircraft within two weeks.
We are on a journey to become a better BA for our people and customers, supported by a transformation program that will see us invest £7 billion over the next two years to transform our business.
– Sean Doyle, Chairman and CEO, British Airways
BA’s free WiFi messaging plan
Like many other airlines that offer similar features, the free messaging plan includes applications such as WhatsApp, iMessage, Facebook Messenger, and Teams Chat. The system only allows text-based chat. Videos, images, and attachments are blocked from conversations.
Access is limited to one device per passenger/account number. Members of partner airline loyalty programs are required to sign up for the BA program rather than using a partner account. Currently, Air Canada is the only airline that offers a partner account access option on its system. Delta Air Lines executives have expressed interest in a similar approach.[W]We don’t want our partner customers to have to participate in our program. It’s not that we don’t have anything to do with it. We want them to stay there, so we’re currently in the process of allowing access using partner credentials. ”
Perhaps BA could easily implement something similar across its Avios integration partners given the common backend of the points platform. But when that will happen remains an open question.
BA also notes that Wi-Fi is available at 100% of Gatwick and 80% of Heathrow. The latter figure should reach 100% by the end of 2025.
Updating seats of various sizes
The company also announced updates to its smallest* and largest aircraft seats.
In the future, the new A320neo and A321neo fleet will be equipped with 60W USB-A and USB-C outlets in the seatbacks of the Business Class cabins in Onboard Club Europe. Economy class passengers will receive 15W of power. Leather trays will also return to premium seats, blocking the middle seat in business class.
BA’s A380s will also receive updates to their first class suites. The new seats are expected to debut in late 2025 as part of the superjumbo fleet’s aircraft modification program.
*There are smaller aircraft in BA livery, but they are operated by CityFlyer and SunAir, with no connectivity on board and no known plans for such.
While you’re here, I have a favor to ask of you…
Did you enjoy the content? Or learn something useful?Or, in general, do you think this is the type of story you’d like to see more of? Consider Support the site by making a donation (of any amount). It makes me independent and helps me avoid credit card problems.
