Air New Zealand begins inflight WiFi rollout with first Boeing 777 installation

Air New Zealand started (09-Oct-2017) trialling its new inflight WiFi service on one of its long-haul Boeing 777-300 aircraft. The airline is rolling out WiFi capability across its international jet fleet, beginning with the 777-300 fleet. Further WiFi enabled aircraft will become available progressively over the next couple of months. Air New Zealand has selected the Inmarsat global GX satellite constellation for connectivity and has partnered with Panasonic Avionics as the in-cabin technology supplier. Air New Zealand is initially launching inflight WiFi as a trial, to gather customer feedback and ensure the system meet customers' needs before it is rolled out across its international fleet. The service will be available progressively with the installation of inflight WiFi on the 777-300 fleet expected to be completed by Jun-2018 and its 777-200 fleet rolling out from Apr-2018. Air New Zealand chief digital officer Avi Golan says the airline has been working closely with its partners to prepare for the launch of inflight WiFi which will enable customers to access email, social media channels, web browsing and go shopping while travelling. [more - original PR]