In spite of advancements in Hawaii flight WiFi, the islands’ remote location has continued to pose big challenges for air travel regarding in-flight connectivity. The introduction of the new Viasat-3 F1 satellite marks a significant leap forward in addressing these challenges, which will add to this year’s other enhancements for improved WiFi capabilities for flights between the mainland and Hawaii.
Viasat’s long-awaited breakthrough in satellite technology.
The recent launch of the Viasat-3 F1 satellite into commercial service is one of the game-changers for aviation connectivity on routes to Hawaii. This satellite will bring high-speed broadband services to Viasat-equipped aircraft, including those flying to Hawaii.
Historically, flights between the mainland and Hawaii suffered from connectivity gaps due to the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean and providers being slow to up their offerings.
Delta Air Lines and American Airlines, two of the six major carriers serving Hawaii, are set to benefit from this new satellite. Delta has over 1,000 aircraft using Viasat, so passengers can expect more seamless internet access and enhanced streaming on many Hawaii-bound flights.
A new era for Hawaiian Airlines | Wi-Fi partly deployed.
Viasat’s technological advancements coincide with Hawaiian Airlines’ Wi-Fi steps into their long-awaited satellite Wi-Fi journey. After an 11-year wait, Hawaiian Airlines began rolling out Starlink satellite-based Wi-Fi on its aircraft, marking a significant upgrade in its onboard services.
All A321neo aircraft are equipped with this technology, and Hawaiian aims to have all of its A330-200s outfitted with Wi-Fi by the end of this year, and 25% have it already. The new 787-9 aircraft (Dreamliners) are also set to receive Wi-Fi; however, a timeline for these installations has not been established.
Your comments about Wi-Fi on Hawaii flights have been mixed.
One commenter expressed enthusiasm, stating, “Finally, a long-awaited upgrade! I can’t wait to experience uninterrupted streaming and browsing on my flights to the islands.”
Another reader shared their cautious optimism: “I’m hopeful but cautious. Previous Wi-Fi services were unreliable, but the new technology sounds promising.”
However, some prefer retaining the traditional, not-connected experience, with one stating, “While Wi-Fi is nice, nothing beats the relaxation of getting lost in a novel during the journey.”
This diversity in preferences reflects the balance between technological advancements and the timeless appeal of reading during Hawaii travel.
Have you been wanting more Hawaii flight WiFi?
So, where do you stand with these developments? Personally, BOH editors use the time on Hawaii flights to work on articles, which we find very helpful for our travels.
according to BOH 9/21/2023 airfare to Hawaii from the mainland to Hawaii has dropped from $5,500 to $99 in some cases from the 40’s till now.. Can we please use the word “victim” sparingly please. Going down with an airplane and losing your life would make you a victim. Having an uncomfortable flight or ignoring the fine print on a cheap fare means you should have embraced “caveat emptor”. I flew LAX to HNL on a last minute fare of$210.00. The flight had some mechanical issues and we were delayed 5 hours taking off. flew safely across 2,200 miles for $210 on a 30 year old aircraft. I Will choose my flight and the aircraft a little more carefully next time. “Victim”, I think not!
Its important to note that there is a direct correlation between treating customers well and making a profit. (Ask Go, Island air, and allegiant). I would like to see GOH produce more facts, choose the verbiage more carefully, and have the photo match the story. (alaska & southwest disingenuous)
From the way you’re reporting, you obviously haven’t experienced HA’s Free Stakrlink WIFI. Available on entire A321 fleet and a third (as of this writing) of the A330 fleet. You wouldn’t even know you left your cell provider. Seamsless, uninterrupted, and crisp wifi, like nothing I’ve experienced on Any world carrier.
Hi James.
Since you work for HA, you must know. HA said late last week that 25% of the A330s have WiFi. We are traveling A330 in the next week, so hopefully we’ll be lucky in that regard.
Aloha.
Aloha, Guys! I truly enjoy reading your column.
I’m currently on HA Flight 80 HNL/ONT and the Wi-Fi service is excellent. Well done, Hawaiian!
Hawaiian is already using starlink. I had full Internet access on my flight from Portland to Maui.
We flew Hawaiian Air from maui in May and it had wifi. Worked great. The one thing I don’t want is the phones to work and everyone talking.
I’m fine with or without wi-fi. I am a reader, so as long as my phone is charged I always have a book to read! I try to load 7 or 8 books before I leave so I always have plenty to read on my vacation and on my flights. Wi-fi is nice, but not critical for me.
Hooray! I’m happy for this upgrade. It’s long awaited.
As for those who prefer the leisurely, unconnected flight experience, no one will be forcing them to use the internet to communicate during their flight.