Lufthansa is taking a significant step in enhancing passenger connectivity by introducing free messaging on all long-haul flights from summer 2025. This expansion builds upon the airline’s highly successful rollout of complimentary messaging on short- and medium-haul routes in 2024. As competition in inflight connectivity intensifies, Lufthansa’s latest move keeps it aligned with industry developments and shifting customer expectations.
Passengers on Lufthansa’s intercontinental routes will be able to send unlimited messages, including images, using popular platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and Telegram. Available across all travel classes, this service requires passengers to log into Lufthansa’s FlyNet portal using either a Miles & More card number or a registered Lufthansa Group Travel ID.
A Competitive Digital Offering
Lufthansa’s free messaging rollout places it in direct competition with other full-service carriers offering similar inflight connectivity perks. Turkish Airlines, Etihad, Air Canada, and Finnair have already introduced free messaging, though many restrict the service to text-only due to bandwidth constraints. Lufthansa’s decision to allow photo sharing sets it apart, offering passengers a richer, more engaging way to stay in touch while flying.
Within the Lufthansa Group, both SWISS and Austrian Airlines have offered free messaging on select long-haul routes since 2023. Meanwhile, British Airways, as part of its £7 billion transformation programme, has announced plans to introduce free messaging, further signalling the shift towards greater digital connectivity across the aviation sector.
Moreover, Emirates and Qatar Airways have long implemented free messaging services on their long-haul routes, demonstrating the growing demand for continuous communication during flights. Lufthansa’s decision to allow image sharing distinguishes it from some competitors who still limit free messaging to text-only services.
The Cost of Full Connectivity
While messaging will be free of charge, Lufthansa will continue to impose fees for full inflight Wi-Fi access, which includes web browsing, streaming, and email. Currently, only First Class passengers receive complimentary Wi-Fi vouchers, with all other travellers needing to purchase access.
Despite an increasing number of airlines transitioning to fully free inflight Wi-Fi, Lufthansa remains cautious. The airline relies on Panasonic Avionics’ satellite network for long-haul connectivity, while its newer A320neo and A321neo aircraft are equipped with Viasat’s European Aviation Network (EAN). While these networks provide consistent coverage, Lufthansa has yet to announce any plans for a fully free internet experience comparable to Delta, Qatar Airways, or United Airlines, which are investing heavily in cost-free connectivity for all passengers.
Implications for Lufthansa and the Aviation Industry
Lufthansa’s expansion of free inflight messaging is a welcome enhancement, positioning the airline more competitively in an increasingly digital-first travel landscape. However, with major international carriers moving towards entirely free Wi-Fi, Lufthansa may need to reassess its long-term connectivity strategy to remain at the forefront of passenger experience innovation.
For now, this initiative bolsters Lufthansa’s digital service offerings, catering to travellers who expect seamless connectivity at 35,000 feet. As technological advancements continue and airlines strive to differentiate themselves, Lufthansa will likely need to adapt further to meet the evolving expectations of the modern flyer.
