The service will be free to select members.
The friendly skies is getting fierce when it comes to competing with major airlines to attract new customers or keep their loyal base happy.
Case in point, Alaska Airlines has announced that its planes will now feature free Wi-Fi on all flights after adding Starlink connectivity to its jets. The free service, however, comes with one small asterisk. The service will be free to members of Atmos Rewards, the new joint loyalty program in partnership with sister airline Hawaiian Airlines.
As for when Alaska Airlines passengers can expect to enjoy the free amenity, Alaska Airlines announced that installations begin in 2026, with a rollout of Starlink-enabled aircraft continuing into 2027.
Currently, Alaska Airlines offers Wi-Fi that’ “fast enough to stream your own Netflix, Hulu, or Xfinity stream” for only $8. But pretty soon it’ll be free, for Atmos members.
The race to offer passengers free Wi-Fi has intensified as of late. American Airlines recently announced its plans to offer free Wi-Fi to all AAdvantage loyalty members by early next year.
Alaska Airlines’ move comes amid a shift to not only attract and keep customers, but also modernize its look.
Earlier this month, Alaska introduced a new-look to their 787-9 aircrafts, which will soon feature an eye-popping new livery that features a striking exterior design inspired by the Northern Lights.
The airline also announced plans to expand to new markets, like Asia and Europe, from Seattle.