Norwegian introduces unlimited gate-to-gate onboard Wi-Fi on aircraft

Service available on all routes for entire duration of the flight

Budget carrier Norwegian has introduced gate-to-gate Wi-Fi connection without a minimum altitude reach needed for access.

Previously, the aircraft needed to reach a minimum of 10,000 feet before Wi-Fi could be activated. Passengers travelling on any route across Norwegian’s network are now able to be connected for the entire duration of the flight.

Earlier this year, Norwegian became the first low-cost airline to introduce free Wi-Fi on intercontinental routes and is currently rolling out on its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft. Customers have the option to access basic free Wi-Fi or a premium high-speed option, fast enough to stream television shows and movies.

Norwegian expects to have the rollout of Wi-Fi completed on 50 per cent of its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft by 2020. The carrier has also introduced premium Wi-Fi on European flights.

Kurt Simonsen, Norwegian chief customer and digital officer, said: “We know how important it is for our passengers to have internet access. Until recently, flights were hour-long black holes when it comes to internet coverage.

“Now, Norwegian makes it possible to be online from the moment you board the aircraft until you step outside again.

“We launched free Wi-Fi on board in 2011 and since millions of passengers have been surfing the internet on board, so are looking very much forward to offering the new gate-to-gate experience to our passengers.”

Norwegian is the third largest airline at London Gatwick with 4.6 million yearly passengers and over 1,000 UK-based pilots and cabin crew. The airline flies from London Gatwick, Edinburgh and Manchester airports to 30 destinations worldwide.