Turkish to provide free inflight internet for all by late 2025

This initiative will involve a comprehensive overhaul of the airline's existing fleet, which it says will be retrofitted with “cutting-edge in-flight connectivity (IFC) technologies”.

These upgrades will expand the current WiFi service, already available on most Turkish Airlines flights, to cover all passengers at no extra cost.

The number of airlines now offering complimentary WiFi services is expanding,  such as Qatar’s recent announcement that it is to offer SpaceX’s Starlink service to Boeing 777 passengers free of charge.

The national carrier of Turkey currently provides inflight Wi-Fi on its aircraft, with various options dedicated to short-haul and long-haul flights. Free internet access is available to business class travellers as well as Miles&Smiles programme subscribers.

Members currently enjoy up to 400MB of data and unlimited messaging during their journey. This gives them the chance to stay connected, plus they can purchase more if they exceed their quota.

For international flights additional data currently costs US$5 for unlimited messaging, US$8 for 100 Mb or US$15 for 250Mb. Unlimited data on international long-haul flights costs US$35.

Turkish Airlines says it is open to collaboration with suppliers, and the carrier is actively negotiating with local and international suppliers that can offer the best IFC service solutions for its entire fleet.

In addition, Turkish Airlines provides support to Turkish companies in the development of solutions for this connectivity service. The airline has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with TCI Aircraft Interiors, a certified aviation products provider, and Turksat, a regional leader in satellite technologies.

The signing of the MoU highlights that the carrier is helping to support Turkish companies in establishing a presence in the IFC sector.

In a statement it added: “Following the necessary feasibility studies, all stakeholders will work to develop an understanding and endeavour to transform the MoU into a definitive agreement. Turkish Airlines remains committed to ensuring the highest level of passenger experience and advancing the Turkish aviation industry.”