Air France has announced plans to revolutionise its in-flight connectivity by partnering with Starlink to provide free high-speed wifi across its entire fleet. Olivia Palamountain reports

From summer 2025, Air France will begin rolling out what it describes as an "ultra-high-speed connectivity service" designed to deliver a "ground-like" internet experience.

The service will be available free of charge across all cabin classes, with passengers accessing it through their Flying Blue loyalty programme accounts.

The partnership with Starlink, which operates the world's largest constellation of low Earth orbit satellites, promises to deliver stable, fast internet access even in remote areas.Passengers will be able to stream content, play online games, make video calls, and stay connected with friends and family throughout their flight.

Multiple devices can be connected simultaneously, with the service accessible via smartphones, tablets, and laptops.

For passengers without a Flying Blue account, free membership can be created onboard in "just a few clicks," according to the airline.During the transition period, while aircraft are being equipped with the new technology, Air France will maintain its current connectivity service, including a free "Message Pass" for Flying Blue members and paid options for additional features. The rollout will eventually extend to the airline's regional fleet.

La Première customers will maintain direct connection privileges, though the airline notes that some restrictions may apply when flying over certain countries.

This latest investment follows the aviation industry's growing trend toward providing enhanced digital services, with airlines increasingly recognising in-flight connectivity as a key factor in passenger satisfaction.

United, Qatar Airways and Turkish Airlines have all committed to optimising their planes with wifi.