Connectivity

Inflight connectivity via OnAir enables passengers to use their own mobile phones or smartphone devices, just as they do on the ground. The aircraft is its own 'connected zone' and passengers connect via international roaming to the OnAir service, in much the same way they do when entering a foreign country.

As well as calls and SMS, email and Internet browsing (GPRS) is also available through passengers' mobile phones. For all mobile GSM and GPRS services passengers simply need a standard international roaming agreement with their home mobile operator.

International call roaming rates apply

Phone use is allowed above 4,000 metres, as indicated by the corresponding overhead sign. Making a call with Mobile OnAir is the same as placing an international call, so passengers dial 00 or + followed by the country code of the number being dialled. Call charges are automatically included in a passenger's normal phone bill at rates similar to international roaming charges for calls made overseas.

Passengers can access OnAir's services during most of the flight. However, in line with regulatory requirements, they are not allowed to use the services during take-off and landing - the service is automatically turned off during these flight phases.

Additionally, airlines can choose which services they wish to offer their passengers, and when. For example, they may decide to use the crew control panel to enable data transfer and SMS messages only, to create 'quiet times' i.e. when the majority of passengers are sleeping.