Viasat has been selected as the inflight connectivity provider for SkyTeam member Korean Air’s Airbus A321 neo fleet.
Korean Air will receive a total of 30 Airbus A321 neos by 2027 as part of a fleet modernisation plan, all of which will be delivered linefit with the global satellite company’s connectivity solution.
The A321 neos will be operated on short- and medium-haul flights between the airline’s main hub in Seoul and destinations across the Asia-Pacific region.
Viasat says that a recent passenger experience survey found that 89 per cent of Korean respondents would be more likely to rebook with an airline if quality inflight wifi was available – compared to 82 per cent globally.
“Today marks an important milestone for Korean Air, as we embark on our first inflight connectivity partnership. Our selection process started in 2018 and we’ve been focused on selecting the right solution that meets our business needs and can help us realize the untapped potential of our onboard experience,” said Kenneth Chang, Korean Air’s executive vice president and chief marketing officer.
“The new connectivity system will be a fundamental part of our digital strategy and customer experience going forward. Coupled with the advanced features of our fuel-efficient, next-generation A321neo aircraft, we look forward to taking our passenger experience to the next level,” Chang said.
Korean Air currently serves 120 cities in 43 countries with a fleet of 156 aircraft.
The airline’s A321 neo aircraft come in a dual-class configuration, with eight lie-flat seats in ‘Prestige’ business class configured 2-2, and 174 economy class seats configured 3-3.
Korean Air already has six of the 30 A321 neos from its initial order, and these are currently deployed on services including Incheon-Phnom Penh, and Gimpo-Haneda.
