In-flight wifi is coming to Spirit Airlines — for a fee, of course.
The airline announced that it will become the first ultra-low-cost airline in North America to offer onboard internet connectivity, with all aircraft wired for wifi access by the summer of 2019.
Access fees will start at about $6.50 and range higher on popular routes and flights where access is in high demand.
Spirit’s wifi partner, Thales Group, will install a Ka-band HTS (High Throughput Satellite) system that will “bring Spirit Guests high-speed web browsing and streaming experiences similar to what they would find at home,” according to an airline press release.
The announcement was made in conjunction with Spirit’s new Invest in the Guest pledge, which promises a commitment to on-time flights, an improved customer service training program for Spirit employees, investments in technology aimed at making booking, check-in, and flying easier, continued route network expansion, and an ongoing charitable-giving programme.
Spirit’s business model is built around low base fares and individual charges for a la carte services. Fees for baggage, for example, can also rise and fall depending on route and when customers make payment.