LATAM Airlines Operates Its First Long-Haul Flight with Onboard Wi-Fi on a Boeing 787
LATAM Airlines has marked a milestone in South American aviation by operating its first long-haul flight equipped with onboard Wi-Fi on a Boeing 787-9.
A Technological Leap for Transcontinental Routes
LATAM Airlines Group—the region’s leading airline conglomerate with operations in Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru—has begun the progressive implementation of high-speed internet across its long-haul aircraft. This service, which is already operational on its single-aisle fleet, is now being extended to the wide-body models used on routes to North America, Europe, Oceania, Africa, and the Caribbean.
The project involves an investment exceeding 60 million dollars and aims to equip more than 60 long-haul aircraft between 2026 and 2028. With this move, the company solidifies its position as the first South American airline to offer wireless connectivity on this type of aircraft.
High-Performance Satellite Connectivity
The technology selected by the group is based on a satellite network that combines satellites at different orbits and altitudes. This technical architecture enables:
- High Connection Speeds: Seamless browsing even over oceans or remote areas.
- Low Latency: Reduced data transmission delays, essential for real-time applications.
- Global Coverage: Support for critical routes such as Santiago–Sydney, Santiago–New York, Lima–Madrid, or São Paulo–London.
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In addition to enhancing the customer experience, connectivity will bolster operational efficiency through data transmission for predictive maintenance, flight path optimization, and constant communication between the crew and ground teams.
Evolution of the Passenger Experience
Starting this month, travelers boarding the first enabled Boeing 787-9 will be able to access free messaging services. However, the airline has confirmed that the offering will soon evolve to allow LATAM Pass loyalty program members to work remotely, access social media, and browse the web without restrictions.
This internet service arrives to complement LATAM Play, the entertainment platform that offers:
- More than 300 movies and 1,000 series episodes.
- Content from strategic partners such as Disney+, HBO Max, and Paramount+.
- More than 800 music albums and dedicated reading sections.
Regional Market Leadership
As of today, the group already features Wi-Fi on more than 95% of its short-haul fleet (single-aisle aircraft), with over 260 equipped aircraft that have served more than 18 million passengers.
According to Paulo Miranda, Vice President of Customers at LATAM Airlines Group, this milestone seeks to elevate the travel experience toward a more human and connected standard. The expansion of connectivity adds to the group’s other modernization efforts, such as the comprehensive cabin refurbishment and the installation of new Business Class suites designed to maximize privacy and comfort on international flights.
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