Search Results forwi-fi
Luxury hotels in Riyadh and Dubai have fastest Wi-Fi networks in MENA: Ookla
Representative Image New research by Ookla® a global leader in connectivity intelligence, reveals that luxury hotels in Riyadh and Dubai are setting new benchmarks for high-speed internet connectivity, with some of the fastest Wi-Fi networks in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). The research, based on Speedtest Intelligence® data, assessed Wi-Fi performance at 22 top-rated five-star hotels and resorts across the region, identifying exceptional performers and highlighting regional trends in digital connectivity. As travelers increasingly rely on high-speed internet, hotels that prioritise Wi-Fi infrastructure can significantly enhance guest satisfaction and loyalty. The analysis, based on data from October 2023 to October 2024, categorised hotel Wi-Fi performance into three tiers. Top performers encompassed hotels with a median download speed exceeding 100 Mbps, capable of supporting multiple 4K streams, ultra-fast downloads, and lag-free video conferencing. Four Seasons in Riyadh, Raffles the Palm, and Jumeirah Mina Al Salam, both in Dubai, top the list with median download speeds of 154.75 Mbps, 122.82 Mbps, and 121.35 Mbps, respectively. The second group, which were good performers, included hotels with a median download speed between 50 Mbps and 100 Mbps. Download speeds ranged from just over 50 Mbps at Raffles and Fairmont in Doha to 93.70 Mbps at Rixos Sharm El Sheikh in Egypt. Other notable properties in this group include Burj Al Arab and the Royal Atlantis in Dubai, as well as other hotels in Muscat and Marrakesh. Performance laggards include hotels and resorts with a median download speed below 50 Mbps. Over 45 percent of the properties reviewed fall under this category. While suitable for single high-definition to 4K streaming, this speed has potential limitations, particularly during peak usage. Notably, a few 5-star hotels in Abu Dhabi and Muscat had a median download speed below 15 Mbps. “To assess Wi-Fi performance, we benchmarked median download speeds inside and around the properties over one year. This allowed us to evaluate network performance and stability across hotels with varying occupancy levels and guest profiles. We focused on the most commonly used guest Wi-Fi networks and excluded those specific to events like sporting competitions,” said Karim Yaici, Lead Industry Analyst for the Middle East and Africa at Ookla. While Gulf countries generally have high-speed internet infrastructure and top the Speedtest Global Index™, the subpar performance of some hotels in the region suggests potential issues with Wi-Fi configurations, and not with the capacity of the broadband connection. “The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the demand for seamless internet access, with tourists and business travelers expecting high-speed Wi-Fi for work and leisure. In line with this, cities such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi have significantly invested in their network infrastructure to meet these elevated expectations of digital nomads and professionals,” added Yaici. With a commitment to empowering consumers and businesses with network intelligence to drive digital innovation and connectivity, Ookla helps hospitality property managers design Wi-Fi networks as well as monitor and optimise their performance.
Air India becomes the first Indian airline to introduce in-flight Wi-Fi internet on domestic flights
Starting 1 January 2025, in-flight Wi-Fi services available on all flights operated by Air India’s A350, B787-9 and select A321neo aircraft. Air India, India’s leading global airline, today announced it has rolled out Wi-Fi internet connectivity services on board domestic and international flights operated by Airbus A350, Boeing 787-9 and select Airbus A321neo aircraft. This makes Air India the first to offer in-flight Wi-Fi internet connectivity on flights within India, enabling travellers – flying for leisure or business – to stay connected to the internet during their flights, and to enjoy browsing, accessing social media, catching up on work, or texting friends and family. “Connectivity is now an integral part of modern travel. For some, it is about the convenience and comfort of real-time sharing, while for others, it is about greater productivity and efficiency. Whatever be one’s purpose, we are confident that our guests will appreciate having the option of connecting to the web and enjoy the new Air India experience on board these aircraft,” said Rajesh Dogra, Chief Customer Experience Officer, Air India. Accessible on Wi-Fi-enabled devices such as laptops, tablets, and smartphones with iOS or Android operating systems, the in-flight Wi-Fi will also allow guests to connect multiple devices simultaneously when above 10,000 feet*. The deployment of Wi-Fi on domestic routes follows an ongoing pilot programme on international services operated by the Airbus A350, select Airbus A321 neo and Boeing B787-9 aircraft serving international destinations including New York, London, Paris and Singapore. As with the domestic offer, Wi-Fi is complimentary for an introductory period. Air India will progressively roll out the service on other aircraft in its fleet over time. How travellers can access Wi-Fi on board Air India flights: Enable Wi-Fi and go to Wi-Fi settings Select the ‘Air India Wi-Fi’ network Once redirected to the Air India portal on the default browser of the device, enter the required details such as PNR and last name Access complimentary internet service * In-flight Wi-Fi connections depend on factors such as satellite connectivity, overall bandwidth usage, routes, and government restrictions.
Japan Airlines Expands Free Inflight Wi-Fi and Celebrates A350 Milestone
Japan Airlines has announced an exciting expansion of its free inflight WiFi service to all cabins on international flights. This enhancement ensures that passengers across all classes can stay connected while in the air. Inflight Wi-Fi Details First and Business Class: Unlimited free Wi-Fi Premium Economy and Economy Class: One hour of free Wi-Fi to browse the web, stay connected on social media, and send/receive photos and texts Please note that voice calls are not permitted on flights. For domestic passengers, JAL continues to offer free inflight Wi-Fi across all classes, including unlimited streaming to watch movies and listen to music from personal devices. Celebrating Five Years of A350 Operations In addition to the Wi-Fi expansion, JAL recently celebrated a significant milestone: five years of A350 operations. September 2019: JAL’s first state-of-the-art A350-900 aircraft took off from Haneda to Fukuoka. Current Fleet: JAL now operates 15 A350-900s exclusively for domestic services across Japan, with three more on order. International Routes: JAL operates six A350-1000s on long-haul routes to London, New York, and Dallas. The fleet will expand with seven additional A350-1000s and 20 long-haul configured A350-900s in the coming years. These updates reflect JAL’s commitment to enhancing the passenger experience and maintaining a modern, efficient fleet. Whether you fly domestically or internationally, JAL’s expanded Wi-Fi service and advanced aircraft ensure a comfortable and connected journey.
Vistara becomes India’s first airline to offer complimentary Wi-Fi onboard its international flights
Vistara now offers 20 minutes of complimentary Wi-Fi internet connectivity onboard international flights, operated using its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner and Airbus A321neo aircraft, across all the three cabins. This initiative makes Vistara the first Indian airline to do so, underscoring its commitment to consistently elevate the travel experience for its customers. The complimentary 20-minute Wi-Fi access enables customers to stay connected and is also ideal for those who wish to purchase extended Wi-Fi plans using Indian credit/debit cards. This service allows customers to receive one-time passwords via email, facilitating the purchase of extended in-flight Wi-Fi services during the active session. Deepak Rajawat, Chief Commercial Officer, Vistara said, “At Vistara, we are committed to constantly enhancing the experience of our customers. We are, yet again, delighted to lead the way and become the first Indian airline to offer complimentary Wi-Fi on international flights across all cabins. We are confident that customers will appreciate this value addition that aims to make their Vistara journey more convenient, productive, and seamless.” Vistara’s young and modern fleet features state-of-the-art inflight entertainment (IFE) systems, offering passengers a rich selection of nearly 700 hours of engaging content, including a wide array of movies, TV shows, and audio titles. Additionally, Vistara’s international flights operating on Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner and Airbus A321neo offer advanced wireless connectivity powered by Panasonic Avionics, enabling seamless internet access on Wi-Fi-enabled devices at 35,000 feet. Passengers can stay connected and access emails, information, and social media with ease. Vistara is India's highest-rated airline on Skytrax and TripAdvisor, and it has been the winner of several 'Best Airline' awards, besides being lauded for world-class cabin cleanliness and upholding high safety standards. The only Indian carrier to feature amongst World's Top 20 Airlines, Vistara has been named '16th Best Airline', second time in a row globally while also being recognised as the 'Best Airline in India and South Asia' for the fourth time in a row, 'Best Airline Staff in India and South Asia' for the sixth consecutive year, 'Best Cabin Crew in India and South Asia' for the fourth time in a row and 'Best Business Class Airline in India and South Asia' for the third time in a row at the coveted 2024 World Airline Awards by Skytrax. Vistara has also been recognised with the World's 4th Youngest Aircraft Fleet and Asia's 2nd Youngest Aircraft Fleet awards in 2024 by ch-aviation.
Turkish Airlines to offer free, unlimited Wi-Fi across its fleet
Turkish Airlines, the airline flying to more countries than any other, is committed to enhancing its in-flight experience through the integration of latest developments and innovative technologies. In line with this strategy, the national flag carrier is working to provide all passengers with free, unlimited, uninterrupted and fast connectivity service within two years, starting from the end of 2025. As part of this initiative, Turkish Airlines plans to retrofit its existing fleet with the latest in-flight connectivity (IFC) technologies and equip the new aircraft with the most efficient IFC technologies available. This will enable the carrier to extend the IFC service currently offered in the majority of its fleet to the entire Turkish Airlines’ fleet, providing all passengers with unlimited, uninterrupted, and faster IFC service free of charge. With the integration of the new IFC technologies, Turkish Airlines aims to meet the expectations of its passengers regarding their digital consumption habits during travel. Therefore, Turkish Airlines is open to collaboration with all suppliers, and the carrier is actively negotiating with local and international suppliers that can offer the best IFC service solutions for its entire fleet. In addition, Turkish Airlines provides support to Turkish companies in the development of solutions for this connectivity service. In this regard, Turkish Airlines has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with TCI Aircraft Interiors, a certified aviation products provider, and Turksat, a regional leader in satellite technologies. The signing of the MoU highlights Turkish Airlines’ is considering leveraging national capacity and the carrier helps support Turkish companies in establishing a presence in the IFC sector. Following the necessary feasibility studies, all stakeholders will work to develop an understanding and endeavor to transform the MoU into a definitive agreement. Turkish Airlines remains committed to ensuring the highest level of passenger experience and advancing the Turkish aviation industry.
ANA introduces complimentary in-flight Wi-Fi services for business class passengers on International Flights
All Nippon Airways (ANA), Japan's largest and 5-Star airline for 11 consecutive years, will offer complimentary ANA Wi-Fi Service for its Business Class passengers on international flights beginning this summer. ANA’s Premium Economy and Economy Class passengers will also have access to complimentary texting*2 with ANA’s Wi-Fi Service on international flights by the end of March 2025. ANA Wi-Fi Service on international flights began in 2014, allowing passengers to access the internet, e mail, and social media platforms. Since then, offerings have been expanded to include complimentary Wi-Fi access on domestic flights and complimentary Wi-Fi for First Class passengers on international flights. “ANA is dedicated to continuously elevating our customer experience, and the additional Wi-Fi enhancements that will be utilized for personal or business purposes is the latest offering for our passengers,” said Tomoji Ishii, Executive Vice President, Customer Experience Management and Planning of ANA. “Our ongoing efforts to expand inflight services is to provide our customers with an even more enjoyable and connected experience onboard.”
Ambassador Cruise Line adopts Starlink Wi-Fi Connectivity
Ambassador Cruise Line, the premium value, no fly cruise line, has announced that Starlink Wi-Fi will be available on its fleet by early December, ushering in an era of seamless, high-speed internet connectivity for guests and crew alike. The deployment of Starlink, the Low Earth Orbit satellite system developed by SpaceX, will bring an unparalleled level of connectivity to Ambassador guests, ensuring they can stay connected with the world wherever they sail. This technology will be accessible not only in public spaces but also in cabins, ensuring that guests can enjoy the internet's convenience and reliability from all corners of the ship. Ambience will be the first ship to undergo its Starlink installation in November, with Ambition's upgrade to broadband internet set to be completed by early December. It’s anticipated that broadband speeds onboard will increase by 50% following the installation. Christian Verhounig, Chief Executive Officer, Ambassador Cruise Line, said: "This enhancement to internet connectivity across the fleet is yet another milestone in our mission to make cruising with Ambassador an unforgettable experience. Reliable internet access is essential, and we are thrilled to introduce an enhanced Wi-Fi service on board Ambience and Ambition. Offering unparalleled connectivity while in port and at sea will enable our guests and crew to seamlessly connect with their loved ones and the world around them, ensuring they can capture and share precious moments while staying informed and entertained during their sailing.” The decision to introduce SpaceX's Starlink connectivity across the entire Ambassador fleet follows a successful trial on board Ambition in September. During this trial period, Customer Satisfaction Questionnaire (CSQ) results for Wi-Fi connectivity improved by an impressive 35%, reflecting the positive impact this technology will have on guest satisfaction. With Starlink Wi-Fi, Ambassador Cruise Line continues to demonstrate its dedication to providing the warmest welcome at sea, ensuring that every guest enjoys a memorable and connected experience on board. Whether guests are exploring exotic ports or enjoying the ship's facilities, they can now stay seamlessly connected, share their travel moments and stay updated with the world, all thanks to Starlink's cutting-edge technology.
Malaysia Airlines Rolls Out Free Wi-Fi To All Classes
Malaysia Airlines has begun offering free Wi-Fi in all cabin classes on selected widebody aircraft, adding to the carrier’s past efforts to improve the value of its connectivity on flights. The service will first be provided on 20 selected widebody aircraft before being phased in on selected narrowbody aircraft. This enhancement follows on the heels of the airline’s complimentary in-flight Wi-Fi service, which was launched on 1 July 2023 for Business Suite and Business Class passengers, as well as Enrich Platinum members, including those travelling in Economy Class, with a data cap of 100 MB per sector. Passengers, including those flying in Economy Class and non-Enrich members, will no longer need to subscribe to the airline’s pay-per-use Wi-Fi with this new enhanced service. Passengers can connect their devices to the ‘MHconnect’ network and use the airline’s free in-flight Wi-Fi, which allows them to stay in touch with loved ones or browse the internet. “We are delighted to extend our complimentary Wi-Fi offering to passengers across all travel classes, making us one of the first airlines to enable such convenience,” said Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) Chief Executive Officer Ahmad Luqman Mohd Azmi. In addition, unlike previous data capping, we now offer unlimited data, allowing guests to conveniently stay connected throughout their flight – whether chatting with loved ones or for business-related reasons. We will continue to invest in initiatives that will significantly enhance our customers’ experience onboard Malaysian Hospitality.” To improve the onboard experience even further, and in conjunction with World Children’s Day in November, the airline will give out a specially curated gift for its young passengers. Children three (3) to eight (8) years old flying on selected long-haul flights will get a reusable Pilot Parker lunchbox set as an eco-friendly memory of their voyage beginning 1 November 2023, whilst stocks last. This is in addition to the present activity pack available to the airline’s young passengers. These initiatives reflect the airline’s unwavering commitment and comprehensive strategy to enhance the customer experience at every touchpoint. The airline is consistently working to strategically improve its services and amenities, such as enriching the content available in its in-flight entertainment (IFE) offerings and enhancing the cabin experience, all with the goal of prioritising passenger comfort, convenience, and enjoyment.
Vistara introduces complimentary wi-fi service exclusively for Club Vistara members
Vistara, India’s finest full-service carrier and a joint venture of the Tata group and Singapore Airlines, has begun offering complimentary Wi-Fi internet connectivity onboard its international flights (operated on Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner and Airbus A321neo aircraft) for all members of its loyalty program, Club Vistara. This complimentary Wi-Fi service is available to all Club Vistara members, regardless of their membership tier, accumulated points, tenure of membership etc. This makes Vistara the first Indian airline to offer free unlimited Wi-Fi to its customers onboard. Enrolment in Club Vistara does not require any charges or fees. This offering includes unlimited data ideal for messaging apps (WhatsApp, Messenger, iMessage and similar services) for all Club Vistara members. Furthermore, Platinum members and Business Class customers get additional 50MB of data, which can be used for web browsing, engaging on social media, and staying connected through messaging and email services. To enjoy both benefits, Platinum members must activate the 50MB surf package before enabling the unlimited messaging service. Club Vistara Base Club Vistara Silver Club Vistara Gold Club Vistara Platinum Business Class (If not a CV member) Messaging Apps (such as WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, iMessage, etc) without attachments Messaging Apps (such as WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, iMessage, etc) without attachments Messaging Apps (such as WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, iMessage, etc) without attachments 50MB data package for browsing, social media, messaging and email + Messaging Apps (such as WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, iMessage, etc) without attachments 50MB data package For browsing, social media, messaging, and email Deepak Rajawat, Chief Commercial Officer, Vistara, said "At Vistara, we recognize that staying connected is an essential aspect of modern-day life. We are delighted to offer complimentary Wi-Fi to our loyal, Club Vistara members on select international flights. This initiative also reiterates our unwavering commitment to continuously enhance the proposition of our loyalty program. We are confident that this will significantly add to the world-class experience we offer onboard.” This exclusive offering is aimed at enhancing the overall travel experience for the Club Vistara members. To activate this service, Club Vistara members need to ensure their contact numbers and email addresses are verified in their Club Vistara account. Furthermore, they are required to add their Club Vistara ID to the booking either at the time of check-in or before boarding the flight. For members enrolling after booking or at the airport, providing their ticket number/PNR will associate the CV ID with their booking. This service is accessible to members on a single device. Terms and Conditions: Club Vistara members are entitled to unlimited data for messaging services on international flights (operated on Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner and Airbus A321 aircraft). Members must have completed their enrolment and verified their contact details- both email and mobile number. Members must ensure their CV ID is added to the booking before boarding the flight to avail the benefit. Members can use this service for themselves only and can access it on a single device. CV Platinum members are entitled to receive an additional 50MB of data which can be used for surfing, in addition to the unlimited messaging service. Members must activate the 50 MB surf package before activating the unlimited messaging service to avail both benefits. All other Club Vistara Terms and Conditions apply. Vistara is India’s highest-rated airline on Skytrax and TripAdvisor, and it has been the winner of several ‘Best Airline’ awards, besides being lauded for world-class cabin cleanliness and upholding high safety standards. The only Indian carrier to feature amongst World’s Top 20 Airlines, Vistara has been named ‘16th Best Airline’ globally while also being recognised as the ‘Best Airline in India and South Asia’ for the third time in a row, ‘Best Airline Staff in India and South Asia’ for the fifth consecutive year, ‘Best Cabin Crew in India and South Asia’ for the third time in a row and ‘Best Business Class Airline in India and South Asia’ for the second time in a row at the coveted World Airline Awards 2023 by Skytrax. Vistara also received the ch-aviation Asia’s Third Youngest Airline Fleet award for the second consecutive year.
Cutting train Wi-Fi threatens sustainable travel: Byway
Tech start-up, Byway, dedicated to combating travel's impact on the climate by simplifying flight-free travel, raises concerns over the Department For Travel’s proposal to remove train Wi-Fi as part of cost-cutting measures. The business emphasises the importance of making train travel more accessible, appealing and competitive to reduce reliance on air travel and head towards a more sustainable future for the travel industry. Byway, which builds trips across the UK and Europe by train, bus, boat and bike, stresses that Wi-Fi on trains is an important tool for keeping customers connected whilst using rail services. Removing Wi-Fi takes away the ability to plan routes, work whilst travelling, access entertainment on long rides and access real-time disruption information. Its use is especially significant on longer journeys, which need to be encouraged as alternatives to air and car travel in order to combat carbon emissions, especially as more airlines are starting to offer free Wi-Fi onboard. “Cutting train Wi-Fi could diminish the convenience and appeal of train journeys, discouraging travellers from opting for low-carbon travel alternatives. The decision to remove Wi-Fi would fly in the face of efforts to support and encourage flight-free travel. To meet sustainability goals, we need to see more investment in rail travel infrastructure, not less.” Cat Jones, Founder and CEO, Byway
November 2017 – Wi-Fi World Congress Asia Pacific
Wi-Fi NOW APAC ★ Bangkok @ Amari Watergate Our mission The mission is to support and promote all things Wi-Fi. Our
3 nights in Koh Samui and 2 nights in Pattaya catch your interest?? Centara and Cosi Hotels have you covered!
In conjunction with Centara Hotels & Resorts, Cosi Samui Chaweng Beach and Cosi Pattaya Naklua Beach was giving you the opportunity to experience 5 nights total of pure luxury across 2 amazing cities! Just by simply answering a simple question