SINGAPORE: Singapore Airlines passengers will soon be able to use their mobile or smartphones to make calls and text messages, as well as access the Internet via WiFi at all times, even when flying at 35,000ft.
The airline said it is collaborating with in-flight connectivity provider OnAir to offer a full suite of onboard communication services to its customers, including access to WiFi Internet and mobile telephony services.
Singapore Airlines also said it plans to roll out the services from as early as the first half of next year, making it the first major airline in Asia to launch such complete in-flight connectivity services.
It said the services would be introduced progressively on flights operated by the airline's Airbus A380, Airbus A340-500 and Boeing 777-300ER aircraft.
The airline's product and services senior vice-president Yap Kim Wah said the services are being offered, as more people want to remain connected with telephony charges now more affordable, apart from the connectivity technology that has advanced.
Singapore Airlines' connectivity partner OnAir is jointly owned by Airbus and SITA, the provider of global IT and telecommunications solutions for the air transport industry, offering global satellite coverage including for the Asian region.
Source: Bernama
