APH Research delivers an updated 2026 analysis of airline policies on in-flight electronics, Wi-Fi access, charging availability and entertainment systems. With Starlink rollouts accelerating and free Wi-Fi increasingly tied to loyalty membership, travellers now have more ways to stay connected. However, rules still vary widely by carrier, aircraft and cabin.
Top Summary: Best Airlines for Wi-Fi, Charging & Entertainment (2026)
- Best for free Wi-Fi (loyalty-based): Delta (SkyMiles), Air Canada (Aeroplan), and Air France (Flying Blue on Starlink-equipped aircraft).
- Best for Starlink expansion: British Airways, Air France, Emirates, Qatar Airways (select aircraft), and Virgin Atlantic (installations beginning Q3 2026).
- Best for messaging access: British Airways (free for Executive Club members), Air France (free Message Pass), and Emirates (complimentary chat for eligible Skywards members).
- Best for charging availability: Air Canada (USB at every seat), Qatar Airways (USB and laptop outlets at every seat), and Singapore Airlines (USB and power outlets).
- Best for in-flight entertainment: Emirates (ICE system with up to 6,500 channels), Qatar Airways (Oryx One with up to 8,000 options), and Cathay Pacific (4,500+ hours of content).
- Important traveller note: Most airlines continue to prohibit voice and video calls onboard, even when Wi-Fi is available.
Aer Lingus
Devices Supported
Any Wi-Fi enabled device, including laptops, tablets and smartphones.
Charging Outlets
USB ports and charging points available on A321neoLR aircraft and the majority of A330 aircraft. Availability varies by aircraft and seat.
Wi-Fi (Cost + Access)
Wi-Fi plans start from £2.99 for one hour of chat and go up to £17.99 for full-flight internet access. Prices vary by route. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available for Business Class and AerClub Concierge members. Starlink connectivity is planned from 2026.
Wi-Fi Use / Restrictions
Voice calls, including VoIP and Skype, are not permitted.
How to Connect
Enable Wi-Fi in aeroplane mode, open your browser and purchase a plan through the onboard portal. Alternatively, connect via AeroMobile roaming (standard roaming rates apply).
Entertainment
Aer Lingus Play App plus onboard movies, music and TV.
Air Canada
Devices Supported
Air Canada Wi-Fi works on Wi-Fi-enabled devices running Android, Apple, Blackberry and Windows platforms. Supported browsers include Chrome, Firefox, Internet Explorer (8+), Microsoft Edge and Safari.
Charging Outlets
Power outlets are available at every Business Class and Air Canada Signature Class seat, and select Economy seats. USB ports for charging are available at every seat.
Wi-Fi (Cost + Access)
Air Canada now offers complimentary Wi-Fi for Aeroplan Members and Business Class passengers from gate to gate on flights within North America and to Sun destinations. Free Wi-Fi on long-haul international flights is planned to expand in 2026. Aeroplan Members also receive free texting, and Aeroplan points can be used to purchase Wi-Fi when paid plans apply.
Wi-Fi Use / Restrictions
Free texting does not support videos or attachments. Voice services are not supported.
How to Connect
Set your device to aeroplane mode and enable Wi-Fi. Connect to “ACWiFicom,” open your browser and type “acwifi.com” to follow the prompts.
Entertainment
Live TV, sports and news, plus Air Canada Rouge entertainment accessible on personal devices. Content includes TV series, music, films, audiobooks and podcasts (including Apple TV, Disney Plus and Audible collaborations).
Air France
Devices Supported
Smartphone, tablet or computer.
Charging Outlets
USB ports and power outlets are available.
Wi-Fi (Cost + Access)
Air France offers a free Message Pass, plus paid Wi-Fi passes available onboard or during check-in (from 30 hours before departure). If the aircraft is Starlink-equipped, Flying Blue members will have access to free high-speed Wi-Fi. If not yet equipped, the free Message Pass remains available.
Wi-Fi Use / Restrictions
The Message Pass supports instant messaging applications (Messenger, WhatsApp, iMessage, WeChat etc.).
How to Connect
Put your device in airplane mode, connect to “AirFranceCONNECT,” and visit connect.airfrance.com.
Entertainment
On-demand films, TV series, news, music, podcasts and children’s content, including access to a selection of CANAL+ programmes.
Air New Zealand
Devices Supported
Bluetooth-enabled devices are permitted. Light handheld devices can be used throughout the flight in flight mode. Larger devices (such as laptops) must be safely stowed for take-off and landing.
Charging Outlets
In-seat outlets providing 110V at 60Hz are available in Business, Premium Economy and Economy on B777-300 and B787-9 aircraft. Outlets accept NZ/AUS 3-pin, EU 2-pin and USA plugs; UK 3-pin requires an adaptor (except in some seats).
Wi-Fi (Cost + Access)
Free inflight Wi-Fi is available on many domestic and international flights.
Wi-Fi Use / Restrictions
Browsing, emails, messages and social media are supported. Voice and video calls are prohibited. Streaming, cloud storage, app updates and real-time multiplayer games are not supported.
How to Connect
Switch your device to Flight Mode, turn on Wi-Fi, join “AirNZ_InflightWiFi,” and visit wifi.airnz.com.
Entertainment
Movies, TV shows and documentaries are available onboard.
British Airways
Devices Supported
Free messaging is available on any device that can connect to Wi-Fi. Devices must be in flight mode. Bluetooth devices can be used during the flight but must be switched off for taxi, take-off and landing.
Charging Outlets
Power availability varies by aircraft and cabin, and some seats require adapters.
Wi-Fi (Cost + Access)
British Airways offers a paid onboard Wi-Fi service in all classes. Executive Club members receive free messaging across all tiers. BA has also announced plans to introduce free high-speed Starlink Wi-Fi starting in 2026, with the goal of making free access available across the fleet once fully fitted.
Wi-Fi Use / Restrictions
The messaging package supports instant messaging and text-based emails (without attachments). Browse and Stream packages support web browsing, email and streaming.
How to Connect
Turn on Wi-Fi, select “BAWIFI,” open your browser and follow the High Life Connect portal steps.
Entertainment
High Life on demand is BA’s inflight entertainment system.
Cathay Pacific
Devices Supported
Tablet, laptop and mobile phone.
Charging Outlets
Power outlets are available, with USB-C and USB-A ports in each cabin. Wireless charging is available in the Aria Suite.
Wi-Fi (Cost + Access)
Diamond and Gold members, plus First and Business Class passengers, receive complimentary inflight Wi-Fi. Paid plans include one-hour access, flight-duration passes, and Message Pass options.
Wi-Fi Use / Restrictions
Message Pass supports text messaging apps such as WhatsApp, iMessage, Facebook Messenger, LINE and WeChat. SMS/data roaming is available on A350 aircraft only (not available in the United States).
How to Connect
Enable airplane mode, turn on Wi-Fi, connect to the Cathay Pacific network and select your preferred package.
Entertainment
4,500+ hours of movies, TV shows, music, games and podcasts. 4K resolution and Bluetooth audio are available on A321neo aircraft and the 77J fleet.
Delta Air Lines
Devices Supported
Bluetooth and electronic devices in airplane mode, including Android, iOS, macOS and Windows devices.
Charging Outlets
AC power outlets and USB ports are available at most seats.
Wi-Fi (Cost + Access)
Free Wi-Fi is available on most domestic and international flights for SkyMiles members. Paid Wi-Fi remains on select aircraft types.
Wi-Fi Use / Restrictions
Free messaging is available via iMessage, WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger. SMS is supported but MMS is not. Voice and video calls are not permitted.
How to Connect
Connect to deltawifi.com and log in using your SkyMiles details.
Entertainment
1,000+ hours of free entertainment, including live TV, podcasts, playlists, movies and games.
Emirates
Devices Supported
Mobile phones, tablets, e-readers, laptops, notebooks, portable DVD players and Bluetooth devices. Devices must be in-flight mode.
Charging Outlets
USB ports and power outlets are available.
Wi-Fi (Cost + Access)
Emirates offers a range of paid Wi-Fi plans and complimentary access for Emirates Skywards members, depending on tier and cabin. Emirates is also rolling out free and unlimited high-speed Wi-Fi with Starlink.
Wi-Fi Use / Restrictions
Unlimited chat plans cover WhatsApp, iMessage, Facebook Messenger, WeChat, Line and Viber. Some streaming and sync services may be restricted.
How to Connect
After take-off, connect to the OnAir WiFi network, log in using your Skywards membership details and select your plan.
Entertainment
ICE entertainment includes up to 6,500 channels plus live TV, sports and news.
Iberia
Devices Supported
Mobile phones and electronic devices can be used in airplane mode throughout the flight. Larger devices must be stowed for take-off and landing.
Charging Outlets
USB ports are available (USB-C on new-generation A350 aircraft). Universal power adapters support EU, USA and UK plugs.
Wi-Fi (Cost + Access)
Free connectivity is available for Business cabin travellers and Iberia Club members for messaging apps. Paid packages are available for messaging, browsing and streaming.
How to Connect
Enable Flight Mode, then select the Iberia Wi-Fi network.
Entertainment
In-flight entertainment includes movies and games, with larger 4K touchscreens on newer aircraft.
LEVEL Airlines
Devices Supported
Most electronic devices can be used in airplane mode. Devices larger than a standard tablet must be stowed for take-off and landing.
Charging Outlets
USB charging outlets are available.
Wi-Fi (Cost + Access)
Wi-Fi messaging is free for the duration of the flight. Paid Wi-Fi packs are also available.
How to Connect
Enable airplane mode, then connect to LEVEL Wi-Fi.
Entertainment
Private 9-inch television screens.
Singapore Airlines
Devices Supported
Wi-Fi is available to Wi-Fi-enabled devices such as phones, tablets and laptops.
Charging Outlets
USB charging outlets and power outlets are available.
Wi-Fi (Cost + Access)
Unlimited complimentary Wi-Fi is available for Suites, First Class, Business Class, PPS Club members and KrisFlyer members (device limits vary by cabin). Paid surf plans are also available.
Wi-Fi Use / Restrictions
Streaming is not supported, and services such as Netflix, YouTube, Disney+ and Hulu will not function. Voice calls are not supported.
How to Connect
Select the KrisWorld network; the Wi-Fi portal should launch automatically.
Entertainment
KrisWorld entertainment system.
Turkish Airlines
Devices Supported
Laptops, tablets and smartphones.
Charging Outlets
Universal power outlets and USB ports, including Type-A and Type-C options.
Wi-Fi (Cost + Access)
Complimentary internet is offered to Business Class passengers and Miles&Smiles members (quota depends on tier). Paid internet passes are available, with pricing varying by route and aircraft type.
Wi-Fi Use / Restrictions
Connectivity may be affected by weather conditions, satellite transitions or flying outside coverage areas.
Entertainment
Planet inflight entertainment, plus My Music Planet featuring 2,000+ artists.
Qatar Airways
Devices Supported
Portable devices including smartphones, tablets and laptops with 802.11 wireless capability. Specific operating system and browser requirements apply.
Charging Outlets
USB and laptop power outlets available.
Wi-Fi (Cost + Access)
Qatar offers free Starlink Wi-Fi on select aircraft and is expanding availability. On non-Starlink aircraft, Wi-Fi can be purchased inflight or pre-purchased online. Privilege Club members receive one hour complimentary access, while Student Club members can access unlimited internet.
Wi-Fi Use / Restrictions
The access code is valid on one device at a time. Streaming is only available with the Paid Plan.
How to Connect
Switch to Airplane/Flight mode, connect to OryxComms and enter your access code on the portal.
Entertainment
Oryx One offers up to 8,000 entertainment options, including movies, TV, audio, games and live sports.
Virgin Atlantic
Devices Supported
Mobile phones, tablets, laptops, eReaders, music players and headphones (excluding take-off and landing). Devices without flight-safe mode must be switched off before doors close.
Charging Outlets
USB sockets at every seat, with many seats also offering 110V AC outlets.
Wi-Fi (Cost + Access)
Wi-Fi packages are purchased through the onboard portal (prices not specified on the website). Virgin Atlantic plans to introduce Starlink, with installations expected to begin from Q3 2026 and continue through 2027.
Wi-Fi Use / Restrictions
Messaging, browsing, email, calls and social are available on many aircraft. Streaming availability depends on aircraft type.
How to Connect
After take-off, connect to the Virgin Atlantic network and visit virgin-atlantic-wifi.com.
Entertainment
Vera entertainment system including films, shows, music and a kids zone.
Vueling
Devices Supported
Smartphones, tablets, laptops, e-readers, headphones, music players, handheld games and cameras.
Charging Outlets
Sockets are being gradually introduced across the fleet.
Wi-Fi (Cost + Access)
Not specified.
Wi-Fi Use / Restrictions
Not specified.
How to Connect
Not specified.
Entertainment
Not specified.
Notes
Vueling has announced plans to adopt Starlink Wi-Fi across the fleet.
FAQs – Airline Rules for Using Electronics & In-Flight Services (2026)
Yes, on most airlines, you can use your phone throughout the flight as long as it is set to Aeroplane/Flight Mode. Many airlines also allow Bluetooth devices, but they may need to be switched off during taxi, take-off and landing
Sometimes. Free Wi-Fi is becoming more common, but it’s often tied to:
Loyalty memberships (e.g., SkyMiles, Aeroplan, Flying Blue)
Premium cabins (Business/First)
Starlink-equipped aircraft (where available)
Many airlines still offer paid packages depending on route and flight duration.
Not always. Some airlines restrict streaming even when Wi-Fi is available. For example, Singapore Airlines states that streaming services such as Netflix and YouTube do not function on its in-flight Wi-Fi. Other airlines may allow streaming only with premium packages.
Many do, but availability can still depend on the aircraft type and seat. Several airlines now offer USB charging widely, while others provide power outlets only in certain cabins or aircraft models. It’s still smart to carry a portable charger for long-haul flights.
In most cases, no. Even when Wi-Fi is available, many airlines prohibit voice and video calls onboard to reduce cabin disruption. Messaging and browsing are usually permitted, but calls over WhatsApp, FaceTime, Skype or similar services are often blocked or not supported.
Related APH Blog Posts to Link
- The Future of Flying: How 10 Major Airlines Are Going Paperless in 2025 and Beyond: Explores trends like digital boarding passes, mobile check-in tech and airline innovation, excellent context for tech-savvy flyers.
- 10 Cybersecurity Tips for Travellers – Stay Safe Online While Abroad: Offers practical advice on protecting devices, useful for travellers who will use public or in-flight Wi-Fi.
- Free Wi-Fi at UK Airports (Gatwick, Heathrow and Manchester): A guide to airport Wi-Fi access, costs and connection tips, great if linking airline Wi-Fi with where you connect before departure.
2024 Research Report (Previous Version – Click to View)/strong>
APH Research delivers an insightful analysis of airline policies on in-flight electronics and connectivity, helping travellers navigate their options across top carriers. This report examines device usage, charging availability, Wi-Fi plans, and entertainment offerings, giving passengers the tools to make informed decisions for a tech-friendly flight.
Airlines like Emirates and Delta lead the way with complimentary Wi-Fi for loyalty members, while others, including Turkish Airlines and Qatar Airways, offer versatile paid plans tailored to browsing, messaging, or streaming needs. Connectivity across all airlines is robust, with options to access Wi-Fi at various price points or through loyalty benefits. However, offerings such as free texting and in-flight internet vary, with premium services often available for higher-tier passengers.
Charging options are becoming standard, with USB and power outlets featured widely across cabin classes. However, travellers in Economy on some carriers may face limitations. For instance, while Air Canada and Air New Zealand provide charging in most seats, others like British Airways require adapters for certain plug types.
Entertainment offerings highlight significant advancements. Emirates and Qatar Airways provide expansive libraries of on-demand content, live TV, and music, while Turkish Airlines and Singapore Airlines offer unique platforms like My Music Planet and KrisWorld. Airlines are catering to diverse passenger needs with features ranging from curated playlists to interactive maps and live sports.
This guide equips passengers with a clear comparison of services, ensuring every traveller – from casual flyers to business-class frequent fliers- can tailor their experience to match their needs. APH remains committed to simplifying travel decisions through reliable and comprehensive research.
APH also offers a range of travel services, including secure airport parking, convenient airport hotel bookings, and combined hotel and parking packages. Let us help you start your journey smoothly and stress-free.
Air Canada
Devices Supported
- Android, Apple, Blackberry, and Windows platforms
- Web browsers: Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Internet Explorer (8+), Microsoft Edge, and Safari
Charging Outlets
- Power outlets: Available at every Business Class and Air Canada Signature Class seat, and select Economy Class seats
- USB ports: Available at every seat
Wi-Fi
- Free texting for Aeroplan Members (add Aeroplan number before check-in)
- Wi-Fi Pass options:
- 1-hour, one-way, or monthly passes (starting from £5 or $6.50)
- Aeroplan points can be used for purchases
- Complimentary Wi-Fi on Premium Rouge
- In-flight Wi-Fi is available on most Air Canada flights and all Air Canada Rouge flights
Entertainment
- Live TV, sports, and news
- Air Canada Rouge entertainment accessible on personal devices
- Content includes TV series, music, and films (collaborations with Apple TV, Disney Plus, Audible, etc.)
Connection Instructions
- Set device to airplane mode and enable Wi-Fi.
- Connect to “ACWiFi.com.”
- Open browser and type “acwifi.com” to follow prompts.
Air France
Devices Supported
- Smartphones, tablets, and computers
Charging Outlets
- USB ports and power outlets available
Wi-Fi Pass Options
- Message Pass: Free (instant messaging apps; no videos or photos)
- Surf Pass:
- €3 (£2.50) for short-haul flights
- €5 (£4) for medium-haul flights
- €8 (£6.50) for long-haul flights
- Stream Pass: €30 (£24.50) for the entire flight
Entertainment
- Over 1,500 hours of on-demand entertainment
- 350 films, TV series, news, music, and podcasts
- Interactive map available
Connection Instructions
- Set device to airplane mode.
- Connect to “AirFranceCONNECT.”
- Open browser and go to connect.airfrance.com.
Air New Zealand
Devices Supported
- Bluetooth-enabled devices
- Mobile phones, tablets, e-readers, cameras, noise-cancelling headsets, laptops, and more
Charging Outlets
- In-seat outlets (110V at 60Hz) in Business Premier, Premium Economy, and Economy classes on B777-300 and B787-9 aircraft
- Accepts multiple plug types (adapters required for British plugs)
Wi-Fi
- Free in-flight Wi-Fi (international and domestic)
- Browsing, emails, social media allowed (streaming and high-data services restricted)
Entertainment
- Personal on-demand entertainment screens
- Movies, TV shows, and documentaries
Connection Instructions
- Switch device to Flight Mode.
- Join “AirNZ_InflightWiFi.”
- Visit wifi.airnz.com and follow instructions.
British Airways
Devices Supported
- All devices capable of connecting to Wi-Fi (one device per package)
Charging Outlets
- EU, UK, and USA sockets available (adapters required for some setups)
Wi-Fi Packages
- Messaging Package:
- Free for Executive Club members
- £1.99-£2.99 for non-members (short-haul flights)
- £2.99-£4.99 for non-members (long-haul flights)
- Browse and Stream Package:
- Free for First Class travelers
- £4.99-£11.99 for short-haul flights
- £4.99-£21.99 for long-haul flights
Entertainment
- High Life on demand (movies, TV shows, and more)
- Free messaging for Executive Club members on all connected flights
Connection Instructions
- Turn on Wi-Fi and select “BAWIFI.”
- Open browser to access the “High Life Connect” portal.
- Choose a package and complete payment.
Cathay Pacific
Devices Supported
- Tablets, laptops, mobile phones
Charging Outlets
- Power outlets and USB ports available in all classes
Wi-Fi
- Complimentary Wi-Fi for First and Business class passengers
- Paid options available:
- £7.50 (USD 9.95) for 1-hour continuous use
- £10 (USD 12.95) for flights under six hours
- £15.50 (USD 19.95) for flights over six hours
Entertainment
- 3,000+ hours of movies, TV shows, music, and games
- Live sports on A350 aircraft
Connection Instructions
- Connect to “OnAir WiFi” network.
- Log in or purchase a plan.
- Follow on-screen prompts.
Delta Air Lines
Devices Supported
- Bluetooth devices, laptops, mobile phones, tablets (in airplane mode)
Charging Outlets
- AC power outlets and USB ports at most seats
Wi-Fi
- Free Wi-Fi for SkyMiles members (domestic flights)
- International Wi-Fi passes available for purchase
- Free messaging via iMessage, Facebook Messenger, and WhatsApp
Entertainment
- 1,000+ hours of free entertainment (movies, live TV, podcasts, and more)
Connection Instructions
- Connect to “deltawifi.com.”
- Log in using SkyMiles credentials.
Emirates
Devices Supported
- CD players, mobile phones, tablets, laptops, and more (in-flight mode)
Charging Outlets
- USB ports and power outlets (MacBook charging not available in Economy)
Wi-Fi Packages
- Unlimited Chat: £2 (USD 2.99)
- Full-flight Internet: £7.50 (USD 9.99) to £15.50 (USD 19.99)
- Free Wi-Fi for Emirates Skywards members (varies by tier)
Entertainment
- Up to 6,500 channels on “ICE” entertainment system
- Live TV and sports
Connection Instructions
- Connect to “OnAir WiFi.”
- Log in with Emirates Skywards details.
- Choose and purchase a plan or use complimentary options.
Singapore Airlines
Devices Supported
- iPads, tablets, small electronic devices, mobile phones
Charging Outlets
- USB ports and power outlets supporting multiple plug types
Wi-Fi Plans
- One-hour surf: £3 ($3.99)
- Three-hour surf: £7 ($8.99)
- Full flight surf: £12.50 ($15.99)
- Unlimited Wi-Fi for Suites, First Class, Business Class, and certain KrisFlyer members
Connection Instructions
- Connect to “KrisWorld.”
- Enter details in “Complimentary Wi-Fi” section.
Turkish Airlines
Devices Supported
- Laptops, tablets, and smartphones
- High-bandwidth applications supported
Charging Outlets
- Universal power outlets and USB ports in all classes (A330 and B777 aircraft)
- USB Type-A and Type-C outlets on seatback screens
Wi-Fi Packages
- Complimentary for Business Class passengers and Miles&Smiles Elite members
- Paid options:
- £3.50 ($5) for unlimited messaging
- £6 ($8) for 100 MB
- £11.50 ($15) for 250 MB
- £11.50 ($15) for unlimited internet (short haul)
- £27 ($35) for unlimited internet (long haul)
Entertainment
- Planet Inflight Entertainment system with movies, music, and kids’ TV
- Inflight music platform featuring over 2,000 artists
Connection Instructions
- Connect to the in-flight wireless network.
- Log in or purchase an internet pass.
- Follow the on-screen steps for connection.
Qatar Airways
Devices Supported
- E-readers, tablets, and smartphones (802.11 wireless capability required)
Charging Outlets
- USB and laptop power outlets available at every seat
Wi-Fi Packages
- Pre-purchase internet for £6 ($8) during online check-in
- Paid options available in-flight starting at £7.50 ($10)
- Privilege Club members: 1-hour complimentary access
- Student Club members: Unlimited complimentary access
Entertainment
- Oryx One system with up to 8,000 entertainment options, including movies, TV shows, audio, and games
Connection Instructions
- Switch device to “Airplane/Flight mode.”
- Connect to “OryxComms” or use roaming services (OnAir or AeroMobile).
- Open the in-flight Wi-Fi portal and enter your access code.