Payoshi Bisht, Pune
Vistara, a joint venture of Tata Group and Singapore Airlines announced on Saturday the launch of complimentary WI-FI internet connectivity for its passengers flying overseas. This service is available across Vistara’s Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner and Airbus A321neo aircraft making it India’s first airline to extend this amenity in its business-class.
A complimentary 20-minute internet service will be provided to passengers who need to get work done whilst traveling. It allows access to emails, information and social networking for free. Passengers requiring higher Wi-Fi connectivity can also avail of select Vistara add-on plans, which must be purchased using an Indian Credit/Debit Card.
Via an active session, the process is further streamlined with a one-time password system securely dispatched via email. Deepak Rajawat, SVP – Marketing and Ancillary Revenue, Vistara said, “We are excited to offer Indian travelers access to WiFi on-board our aircraft as they fly overseas. We’ve worked towards enhancing the in-flight 4experience for five years now since starting Vistara operations within India with state-of-the-art video monitors; we trust that internet connectivity breaks what was until then a clear customer value which hopefully will provide sustained benefit through this new service over time.” We are positive that our customers will appreciate this value add which has been crafted to make their Vistara experience even more convenient, productive and seamless.
Vistara, meanwhile, has also customized its Wi-Fi offerings to address varying requirements. Throughout the flight, Club Vistara members in any tier and cabin class can access messaging apps such as WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger for free. This chat service is also available to non-members at a charge of Rs 372.74 + GST. The airline has priced an additional pack at Rs 1577.54 plus GST for bigger usage of the online world that includes browsing and streaming on social media sites, which is likely to come in handy during long-haul flights or those with layovers. In addition, the airline offers an unlimited data pack at Rs 2704 plus GST supporting all streaming protocols.
The onboard connectivity is provided by Panasonic Avionics, offering broadband-level speeds at 35,000 feet. This makes Vistara join the league of international carriers like Singapore Airlines (KrisFlyer loyalty program members), JetBlue, Emirates and Qatar Airways which also have free Wi-Fi services but added conditions apply.
In-flight, all cabin customers can buy extended Wi-Fi plans on board during the 20-minute active session using an Indian credit or a debit card with payment made through a one-time password (OTP). The service also provides passengers with unprecedented convenience – the ability to effortlessly transition their in-flight connectivity experience.
The move is in line with Vistara’s idea to provide an enhanced passenger experience and address the mounting desire for an onboard connection.