Kazakhstan-based Air Astana has begun equipping its Airbus A321LR aircraft with high-speed satellite Wi-Fi, with the first installation now operating on the Almaty-Tashkent route.
The project has been launched in partnership with communications provider SES, with the equipment being installed at the airline’s own technical facility.
Air Astana is one of the last international airlines to install an IFC package. This was due in part to local regulatory hurdles. These have now been resolved with the help of the relevant departments in the Kazakh government, allowing the installations to go ahead.
“High-speed Wi-Fi will make flights more comfortable, allowing our passengers to stay connected and use the internet in the air. At the same time, having the equipment installed by our own technical specialists enhances further development of Air Astana’s in-house engineering expertise. We thank the Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development and the Ministry of Transport for their support in introducing satellite internet in aviation,” said Ibrahim Canliel, CEO of Air Astana.
All passengers will have free access to the internet during the introductory period till 31 January 2027. From 1 February 2027, complimentary Wi-Fi access will be available to Business Class passengers and Nomad Club members with Gold and Diamond status. Nomad Club members of all tiers will be able to use onboard messaging services free of charge, while other passengers will be able to purchase internet packages.
The rollout of high-speed Wi-Fi across the Airbus A321LR fleet will continue in phases throughout 2027.
