While Swiss has equipped its long-haul fleet with Wi-Fi, it has not been very usable. This is because only costly internet packages were offered, where you had to pay per megabyte. For instance, 20 MB, which could be used up within a few minutes, cost around €40.
Finally, this is coming to an end. Today, new Wi-Fi packages were announced, which will be available on long-haul flights from August 2. In addition, messenger services such as WhatsApp & Telegram can then be used completely free of charge (including sharing photos).
The following packages or options will be available:
- Messaging: free chat services for everyone
- 4 hours of Wi-Fi for CHF 25 (~€26)
- Wi-Fi for the entire flight for CHF 35 (~€36)
- Free premium Wi-Fi for First Class passengers & HON Circle members
There will be no volume limitations any more. Only streaming services will be blocked, according to Swiss (which can be circumvented with a VPN if necessary).
Previously: Paying per Megabyte
Compared to Lufthansa and almost all other airlines worldwide, the previous prices for Wi-Fi at Swiss were a joke. Prices ranged from CHF 9 (~€9) for 20 MB to a maximum of CHF 59 (~€60) for 220 MB. Once the volume was used up (which happens quickly), you had to pay again:
In the First Class, you used to get a free data package with a ridiculous 50 MB.
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Conclusion
With the new Wi-Fi packages, a previous mistake is being rectified. Prices between €20 and €40 for unlimited Wi-Fi on long-haul flights are approximately the industry standard, and now Swiss is joining in.
With free Wi-Fi for HON Circle members and messenger services for everyone, Swiss is going even further than Lufthansa. We assume that Lufthansa will soon follow suit – and it would certainly be welcome.
Source: Swiss Newsroom