Air France deploys Starlink Wi-Fi: our in-flight test confirms very high speed broadband on board
High-speed broadband in the sky is no longer a mirage. With the arrival of Wi-Fi via low-earth orbit satellites,
Why Air France is betting on next-generation Wi-Fi
Passengers want to work, play or connect with loved ones. So, a stable connection becomes a key criterion when booking a flight. With the
This technology uses electronically controlled antennas and low-orbit satellites. In addition, the shorter distance limits latency during video calls. According to 01net’s in-flight tests with Air France, access takes just a few seconds. However, the service waits until cruising altitude before activating.
The access model announced by Air France remains free on the first flights concerned. Also, a captive portal simplifies entry, with no imposed application. According to 01net, the experience is akin to domestic use for everyday tasks. Tests were carried out on a short route, with convincing results.
“On board, the feeling of sailing like at home is astonishing from the very first minutes.”
What Air France is changing for passengers on board
In flight, you can read, send and hold a short video. So, the promise is aimed at everyday digital life, not limitless uses. Air France insists on easy access and quick start-up. And yet, to ensure fairness, some of the more demanding apps may remain restricted.
In the cabin, stability is more important than peak bandwidth. What’s more, the connection is not active during take-off and landing. On the other hand, it becomes fluid at cruising level, depending on the viewing angle. Air France specifies that quality varies according to the zone crossed.
- Activate Wi-Fi in airplane mode before connecting.
- Select the ” AirFranceWifi ” SSID from the list of networks.
- Open the portal and validate the conditions of use to get started.
- Give preference to messaging and light browsing when it’s busy.
- Avoid voice calls, and keep a headset on for everyone’s sake.
What the first tests tell us
Measurements shared by 01net describe a responsive web and efficient caching. As a result, news pages and video platforms load quickly. Depending on conditions, voice-over-IP is sometimes transmitted with surprising clarity. Air France seems to have turned a corner in the face of older solutions.
Air France – Wi-Fi Starlink: Free in-flight service, designed for quick and easy use. SSID: AirFranceWifi, with connection from aircraft mode via a dedicated portal.
Security remains a central concern on board. So it’s best to avoid sensitive transactions or critical accounts. Therefore, opt for encrypted sites and keep your devices up to date. Air France teams follow strict filtering and prioritization rules.
Installation, fleet and schedule
Deployment is gradual, plane by plane, as maintenance is carried out. Also, integration of the shrouded antenna and network boxes takes time. Technical teams are coordinating certification and line tests. Air France promises a wave-by-wave schedule rather than a single switchover.
The densest coverage today is on the major European corridors. However, some routes remain more sensitive to congestion. As a result, performance depends on network load and weather. Software updates will optimize allocation over time.
Unanswered questions
How many simultaneous users can a plane serve without noticeable saturation? This makes capacity management the point to watch at peak times. In short, a fair use policy could limit abuse. Air France will have to clarify these thresholds to maintain a stable experience.
Accessibility for all also raises the question of energy and comfort. For this reason, use headphones and other discreet devices to avoid disturbance. On the other hand, avoid voice calls, which are unsuitable for the cabin. Our crews are always available to remind you of best practices.
The suite could integrate free messaging, portal content and pro services. In this way, Wi-Fi would become a lever for customer loyalty and after-sales service. As a result, ongoing measurement of traveler feedback is already guiding optimizations. Air France is moving forward step by step, with a clear objective: to make the Internet useful.
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