KLM gives away free Wi-Fi on European flights: free in-flight browsing on (almost) the entire fleet

Finally, news that will make many European travelers happy. KLM becomes one of the first airlines on the continent to offer Free Wi-Fi on short-haul flights, introducing a service that had long been at the top of passengers' wish lists. As of January 22, those who fly with KLM on European routes can Connect to the internet for free for the duration of the flight: you will be able to browse, check email, listen to music, play online games, and even stream movies and TV series.

A small revolution for European short-haul, where connectivity has too often been a paid-for luxury-or simply absent.

Free Wi-Fi on half the European fleet (for now)

The introduction of the service will take place gradually. Starting immediately About half of the fleet employed on European flights will be provided with free connection, while in the coming years the service will be gradually extended.

In particular, free Wi-Fi will be available:

• at all A321neo
• at all Embraer 195-E2
• on a portion of the Boeing 737-800

The stated goal is to get, over time, to have free connectivity on the entire European fleet.

No screens, but free internet for all

On European flights, KLM does not offer individual screens at the seats. And that's where free Wi-Fi comes in: each passenger can use his or her own smartphone, tablet, or laptop to build his or her own tailored entertainment. After a simple login-or registering as a member Flying Blue - you will have access to Unlimited internet for the duration of the flight, without limitation of time or use.

A clever way to compensate for the absence of traditional inflight entertainment and make travel more flexible and personalized.

The choice stems directly from customer feedback. Stephanie Putzeist, head of passenger experience at KLM, explains: "We listen carefully to what our passengers value, and free Wi-Fi had long been on their wish list. With this step, we are making travel in Europe more personal and comfortable-everyone can organize their flight in their own way and always stay connected."

Words that tell well how, today, connectivity has become an integral part of the flying experience.

The project is part of the broader renewal of KLM's European fleet. Since last August, the following have entered service 12 new Airbus A321neo, employed exclusively on continental routes.

On board, in addition to Wi-Fi, they find space More modern and comfortable seats, with an increasing focus on comfort on routes that, while short, represent the majority of travel for millions of passengers.

A strong signal for the entire European market

With this move, KLM raises the bar on European short-haul. Free Wi-Fi is no longer just a benefit for long-haul or premium classes, but becomes a service designed for everyone. Sure it is not (for now) Starlink, but it is an important step. And inevitably, the ball is now in the other major European carriers' court: because once you get used to always flying connected, going back will be really hard.

• Flying Blue