Passengers travelling with Virgin Atlantic will soon be able to enjoy ultra-fast broadband services in-flight.
Global aero communications service provider Gogo has announced a partnership with Virgin Atlantic, owned by Sir Richard Branson, to offer in-flight connectivity services on Virgin Atlantic’s existing fleet of aircraft. With the agreement, the airline will become the first European carrier to offer Gogo’s 2Ku in-flight broadband solution, which offers download speeds of up to 70Mb over a local Wi-Fi network – from mid-2015.
‘Virgin Atlantic is on the cutting edge when it comes to delivering technology solutions to their passengers and we’re extremely excited to deliver the best connectivity solutions to keep their passengers connected anywhere they fly around the world,’ said Michael Small, Gogo’s president and CEO. ‘Virgin Atlantic’s relationship with Delta Air Lines will also allow us to build a seamless experience for passengers who fly both airlines.’
Reuben Arnold, Brand and Customer Engagement Director at Virgin Atlantic said: ‘We’re always looking at ways to enhance the on board experience for our customers and expanding in-flight connectivity across our fleet is just one of the ways in which we are doing this. We were impressed with Gogo’s connectivity solution and look forward to all of our customers being able to enjoy this service whilst they fly.’
The in-flight ultra-fast Wi-Fi is being launched as part of a £300 million fleet upgrade undertaken by Virgin Atlantic to improve customer experience.
Virgin Atlantic had earlier this month announced plans to update its network and make significant investment into the Virgin Atlantic customer experience. Under the plan, the airline has identified opportunities for investment into its transatlantic schedule, increasing its presence in the key UK – US travel market to maximise the benefits of its joint venture partnership with Delta Air Lines. The network changes will deliver up to five new daily transatlantic flights and see over 500 more Virgin Atlantic flights operate in summer 2015 compared to summer 2014.
