Virgin Atlantic has formalised a partnership with Kolet, the travel eSIM app, to make mobile internet access abroad easier for its customers. The agreement builds a direct integration of the service into the airline’s customer journey and includes 1GB of data free for 48 hours after activation. Travellers can buy and activate their eSIM before departure or on arrival from Virgin Atlantic’s own interfaces. The start-up, which says it has attracted more than 500,000 travellers in under two years and now covers over 190 destinations, points to accelerating adoption.
Roll-out is staged across several touchpoints: the airline’s website, its mobile app, booking confirmation pages and pre-departure communications. Once installed via the Kolet app, the eSIM connects automatically to the best available local networks. There is no need to swap a physical SIM and passengers keep their usual number. The aim is to curb uncontrolled roaming costs, while the move sits alongside Virgin Atlantic’s wider digital investments and onboard connectivity, including the planned deployment of Starlink Wi‑Fi across the fleet.
1GB as a usage trigger
The deal is intended to drive broader eSIM adoption for France-based Kolet. According to GSMA Intelligence, the share of eSIM-compatible smartphones is rising quickly and the travel eSIM market is growing as customers look for simpler, more transparent alternatives to roaming. In aviation, connectivity is becoming a core part of the customer journey, on a par with the e-ticket, mobile check-in and onboard digital services. Following tie-ups with Transavia France and Philippine Airlines, a partnership with a UK long-haul carrier raises the profile of these use cases.
“Connectivity is becoming a natural component of travel,” said Eduardo Ronzano, co-founder and chief executive of Kolet. “Our ambition is to make internet access instant and invisible for international travellers. Virgin Atlantic is a brand known for constantly reinventing the travel experience, and we are delighted to contribute to that vision.”
For this partnership, the integration spans all Virgin Atlantic digital channels with a co-branded space. Kolet, founded in 2024 and certified B Corp in 2026, is betting that the 1GB/48-hour bonus will act as a usage trigger for a majority of passengers.
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