Air India, under the ownership of the Tata Group, has quietly rolled out inflight Wi-Fi on select widebody aircraft, including its Airbus A350 and Boeing 787-9 fleets. This new feature, which was introduced in November 2024, has been quietly implemented without much fanfare, as the airline seems to be conducting a soft launch or beta testing phase.
The Wi-Fi service is provided through a partnership between Tata’s Nelco and Panasonic Avionics, bringing internet connectivity to passengers traveling on these aircraft. Passengers have reported using the service, but it appears Air India has not made a formal announcement, likely waiting for a period of testing to ensure the service meets operational standards before making it widely known.
The speed of the Wi-Fi varies depending on passenger demand but typically ranges from 3 to 6 Mbps. In instances where fewer passengers are using the service simultaneously, speeds could be higher, offering a more stable and faster browsing experience. This initiative reflects Air India’s ongoing efforts to improve its in-flight amenities and compete with global standards, enhancing the travel experience for passengers seeking connectivity during long flights.
Incorporating Wi-Fi into its aircraft, particularly for long-haul flights, is a significant move for Air India, aligning it with international carriers that have already integrated this service. It also represents a growing trend among airlines to provide connectivity as a standard offering, given the increasing demand for internet access while traveling.
While Air India has not yet rolled out a major marketing campaign for the Wi-Fi service, it is expected that the airline will eventually publicize the feature more widely once the beta testing phase is complete. This would be a positive development for passengers, particularly business travelers or those who wish to stay connected during their flight.