In today’s world, staying connected is more important than ever, even when flying at 35,000 feet. Lufthansa’s FlyNet service ensures that passengers can browse, chat, and stream throughout their journey, making air travel more convenient and enjoyable. Whether you’re travelling for business or leisure, Lufthansa offers a range of onboard Wi-Fi options designed to suit different needs. From free messaging to premium internet access, FlyNet keeps you connected no matter the distance.
What is FlyNet?
Lufthansa’s FlyNet is an onboard Wi-Fi service that provides passengers with seamless internet access during flights. First introduced in 2003 and relaunched in 2010 in partnership with Panasonic Avionics Corporation, FlyNet uses satellite-based Ku-band technology to deliver connectivity across Lufthansa’s fleet. Whether for business or leisure, passengers can browse, chat, and stream while flying at 35,000 feet.
How FlyNet Enhances the In-Flight Experience
In today’s digital age, connectivity is an essential part of travel. Lufthansa ensures that passengers remain online from take-off to landing, whether on short-haul European routes or intercontinental journeys. FlyNet is designed to cater to a variety of needs, from quick messaging to full-scale browsing and streaming, making air travel more enjoyable and productive.
FlyNet on Short and Medium-Haul Flights
Passengers flying within Europe, North Africa, or the Middle East can choose from two Wi-Fi options:
- FlyNet Messaging — Designed for sending and receiving messages via apps like WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and iMessage. Free for Lufthansa Travel ID and Miles & More members, or available for €3 or 1,000 miles for other passengers.
- FlyNet Premium — For those needing full internet access, this package supports social media, browsing, streaming, and VPN use. Pricing depends on flight duration:
- Up to 90 minutes: €6 or 2,000 miles.
- Over 90 minutes: €8 or 2,600 miles.
With speeds of up to 4 Mbit/s, passengers can stay productive or entertained throughout their flight.
FlyNet on Long-Haul Flights
Lufthansa offers enhanced Wi-Fi options on intercontinental flights, ensuring passengers stay connected from departure to arrival:
- FlyNet Messaging — From €5 or 1,700 miles, allowing unlimited messaging.
- FlyNet Premium (2-hour access) — Ideal for short browsing sessions, available from €15 or 5,000 miles.
- FlyNet Premium (full flight access) — Uninterrupted connectivity for the entire journey, priced from €25 or 8,300 miles.
Passengers in Lufthansa’s First Class receive complimentary FlyNet access, reinforcing the airline’s premium service commitment.
Free Messaging on Long-Haul Flights from Summer 2025
As part of its ongoing digital expansion, Lufthansa will introduce free messaging on all long-haul flights in summer 2025. This follows the successful implementation of complimentary messaging on short- and medium-haul routes in 2024.
Passengers will be able to send unlimited text and image messages using apps like WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and Telegram. The service will be available across all travel classes and requires passengers to log into the FlyNet portal using a Miles & More card number or a registered Lufthansa Group Travel ID.
How to Connect to FlyNet
Lufthansa has made accessing FlyNet simple and hassle-free:
- Enable Airplane Mode and connect to the FlyNet Wi-Fi network.
- Open a browser and go to Lufthansa-flynet.com.
- Choose a Wi-Fi package that meets your needs.
- Pay using credit card, PayPal, or Miles & More award miles.
- Start browsing, messaging, or streaming.
For added convenience, Lufthansa offers a FlyNet app, allowing passengers to purchase Wi-Fi in advance on iOS and Android devices.
The Cost of Full Connectivity
While messaging will soon be free on all Lufthansa flights, full internet access remains a paid service. Only First Class passengers receive complimentary full Wi-Fi access, while other travellers must purchase their desired package. Lufthansa relies on Panasonic Avionics’ satellite network for long-haul connectivity, with newer A320neo and A321neo aircraft equipped with Viasat’s European Aviation Network (EAN).
Despite some airlines transitioning to fully free Wi-Fi, Lufthansa has yet to announce plans for unrestricted connectivity akin to Delta, Qatar Airways, or United Airlines, which are investing in cost-free full-flight internet.
Why Lufthansa’s FlyNet Stands Out
Lufthansa’s FlyNet is among the most advanced in-flight Wi-Fi services available, offering a balance of affordability, speed, and accessibility. While competitors like Turkish Airlines, Etihad, and Air Canada provide free messaging, many still restrict image sharing due to bandwidth constraints. Lufthansa’s decision to allow photo sharing sets it apart, offering a richer way to stay connected mid-flight.
Within the Lufthansa Group, SWISS and Austrian Airlines have been offering free messaging on select long-haul routes since 2023. British Airways also plans to introduce free messaging as part of its £7 billion transformation programme, further underscoring the industry-wide move toward greater digital connectivity.
A More Connected Future for Lufthansa
With FlyNet, Lufthansa delivers a premium in-flight connectivity experience that enhances productivity and entertainment for passengers. The addition of free messaging on all long-haul flights in 2025 represents another step toward making digital communication effortless at 35,000 feet. As Wi-Fi technology continues to advance, Lufthansa may need to explore further enhancements to keep pace with global airline competitors embracing fully free internet access.
For now, Lufthansa remains committed to providing one of the best in-flight Wi-Fi experiences in the industry, ensuring that passengers stay connected wherever they fly.
