By: TTW News Desk

The introduction of free in-flight Wi-Fi by ANA is transforming long-haul international flights into an exciting and accessible experience. ANA is ramping up convenience by offering fast, reliable internet access on long-haul flights. This upgrade will allow passengers to freely stream movies, attend virtual meetings, browse, and chat, all without cost. This new service is to be phased in, commencing with select mid-range aircraft and increasing to more than 80% of the international fleet by 2030. ANA’s commitment to travel convenience places them in the world’s digitally advanced airlines. At 35,000 feet, international travel is set to receive a radical upgrade with the new Wi-Fi system equipped to deliver broadband access in the sky.

Mid-Range Aircraft First in Line for Upgrade

The first wave of installations is targeting the carrier’s medium-haul widebody jets, specifically those used on regional international routes across Asia. These aircraft are currently being equipped with advanced satellite internet systems that allow for stable, high-speed connectivity during flight.

By late 2025, three of these mid-range jets will be fully upgraded with the new Wi-Fi system. Another trio of aircraft is scheduled to follow in 2026. These planes are typically deployed on flights between Japan and key cities in Asia and Oceania, making them ideal for the initial phase of implementation.

The service is designed to support a full range of online activity, including streaming video, video calls, social media, and cloud-based work tools. This marks a significant leap from past in-flight systems, many of which offered limited access or required extra fees.

Expansion Set for Long-Haul and New Deliveries

Looking ahead, the airline is preparing to install the same high-performance connectivity across its long-haul fleet. Starting in 2026, newer widebody aircraft used on intercontinental flights—such as those connecting Japan with Europe, North America, and Australia—will begin receiving the same system upgrades.

The plan also includes equipping all new aircraft delivered for international service with the upgraded technology from the outset. This ensures that as the fleet continues to grow and modernize, the in-flight experience remains consistent regardless of the aircraft model or route.

By prioritizing both retrofitting of existing planes and integration into future deliveries, the airline is laying the foundation for a fully connected fleet that caters to the expectations of modern global travelers.

Free Access Aims to Redefine Passenger Expectations

In an age where digital access is considered essential, the move to eliminate charges for in-flight Wi-Fi reflects a major shift in airline service philosophy. Instead of treating internet access as a premium offering, the airline is aligning itself with a growing trend toward complimentary digital amenities.

The upgraded system has been designed to match land-based internet standards, allowing travelers to enjoy uninterrupted connectivity while flying at high altitudes. The goal is to make air travel feel less isolating and more integrated with the digital world—whether passengers want to stream a film, join a video conference, or simply stay in touch with loved ones.

Removing the cost barrier is expected to increase usage across all passenger types, from business travelers to families on holiday. It also places the airline ahead of many global competitors who still rely on pay-per-use or limited-time access models.

Positioning for a Competitive Future in Air Travel

With international travel picking up again, airlines are finding it more and more necessary to rethink how they provide value to customers. While comfort and meals served during the flight are still important, features such as quick and unrestricted Wi-Fi are becoming a deciding factor for longer flight bookings.

This move seeks to resolve issues around customer satisfaction and reposition the airline in the greater context of the very competitive international market. Through making sure that high-speed Wi-Fi is universally accessible, the airline is trying to position itself as a pioneer in the digital services’ provision as a competitive edge in the aviation sector.

The aircraft overhauls also demonstrate the commitment to long-term strategies which are essential in a fast-changing environment where infrastructure frameworks have to adapt to the needs of the customers.

The airline aims to be one of the leading carriers in the international fleet digital connectivity by 2030. With more than 80% of its aircraft expected to be equipped with the free high-speed system, passengers will enjoy a gate-to-gate seamless travel experience during the journey—no login fees and no time constraints.