LATAM invests $25 million in satellite Wi-Fi for 60 new aircraft

International

Airbus A320neo and A321XLR aircraft as well as Embraer E195-E2 jets will receive multi-orbit satellite connectivity as LATAM expands its connected fleet

Image Credit: © AI generated illustration

LATAM Airlines Group will invest more than $25 million to equip over 60 new Airbus and Embraer aircraft with multi-orbit satellite connectivity. The technology is designed to provide passengers with faster and more stable internet access across different routes and geographical areas.

The programme will expand a connected fleet that already comprises more than 250 Wi-Fi-equipped aircraft. The new installations will take place over the coming years and include Airbus A320neo and A321XLR aircraft as well as Embraer E195-E2 jets.

Multi-orbit technology aims to improve coverage

The new system provided by SES will connect aircraft with satellites operating in different orbits. According to LATAM, this approach is intended to provide more consistent coverage during flights, allowing passengers to access the internet regardless of the aircraft's route or location.

The investment forms part of the airline group's wider strategy to increase connectivity and introduce more digital services throughout the passenger journey.

“At LATAM, we are committed to making every journey more connected. By bringing next-generation multi-orbit connectivity to more of our fleet, we will provide our passengers with a fast and reliable onboard internet experience, helping them stay connected wherever they fly, while continuing to raise the travel standard across Latin America,” said Paulo Miranda, Vice President of Customers at LATAM Airlines Group.

More than 250 LATAM aircraft already offer Wi-Fi

The new installations extend a cooperation between LATAM and SES that has been running for almost a decade. This already includes 2Ku connectivity aboard more than 200 aircraft from the Airbus A320 family.

LATAM currently operates more than 250 aircraft equipped with Wi-Fi. With the additional installations planned for the new Airbus and Embraer aircraft, the group is continuing to expand internet connectivity across its fleet.

The inclusion of the A321XLR is particularly relevant as the type becomes part of LATAM's future fleet development, while the E195-E2 adds the technology to the group's new-generation regional aircraft.

Free Wi-Fi for LATAM Pass members

Members of the LATAM Pass loyalty programme will be able to use onboard Wi-Fi free of charge. Passengers can use the connection for communication, work and access to digital content and services during their journey.

The connectivity service complements LATAM Play, the group's onboard entertainment platform. It currently offers more than 2,000 hours of content, including over 300 films, more than 1,000 television episodes and over 900 music albums.

The entertainment catalogue also includes children's and reading content as well as productions from platforms including Disney+, HBO Max and Paramount+. Together with the airline's onboard beverage and snack service, LATAM is positioning connectivity as another element of the passenger experience across its Latin American network.