Finnair has become the latest carrier to introduce complimentary inflight messaging.
From today (2 November) all Finnair Plus members can now send and receive free text-based messages via platforms including WhatsApp, iMessage, Viber, Kakao Talk and WeChat, on European flights operated by Finnair’s narrow-body Airbus fleet.
In addition Finnair Gold and Platinum members will see their current 30-minute free browsing package upgraded to a 30-minute streaming package from January 2024. Finnair Plus Platinum Lumo members will continue to receive complimentary access to the onboard streaming package on short-haul flights.
Finnair said that the new initiative “will support the existing faster Browse or Stream wifi packages available to Finnair customers travelling within Europe, which allow customers to send/receive pictures and videos for a minimal cost”.
The move follows the similar introduction of free inflight messaging on Air Canada, Etihad, Turkish Airlines and SWISS flights in recent months.
SWISS introduces free inflight messaging on long-haul flights
Commenting on the news Anssi Partanen, Finnair’s market director UK and Ireland, said:
“Now more than ever, we appreciate the need for connectivity – even at 35,000 feet – so we know this new initiative will be extremely popular with customers.
“The new complimentary service will make travel even easier for customers, allowing them to message and share updates while flying, to family, friends and business contacts.”