Etihad Airways is taking another step in its digital customer experience strategy. The Abu Dhabi-based airline has just announced the expansion of its partnership with Viasat to equip its entire fleet with high-speed connectivity. The goal: to offer passengers an in-flight experience as seamless as their on-the-ground experience. And for tourism professionals, this is a strong signal: digital technology on board is becoming a real differentiator.
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Why Etihad is accelerating onboard connectivity
According to a press release dated November 18, 2025, Etihad Airways will deploy the Viasat Amara solution on more than 160 aircraft, a large fleet ranging from A321LRs to the new Boeing 787 Dreamliners. This announcement reflects the growing importance of digital customer service in air travel. Arik De, Chief Revenue & Commercial Officer, stated: "Our customers expect the same digital experience in flight as on the ground."
In other words, being able to stream, work, chat, or watch a live game from 10,000 meters is no longer a luxury, but the norm.
The five levers of Etihad Airways' digital transformation
Multi-orbit connectivity: The Ka-band network and partner LEO satellites ensure stable global coverage.
Personalized user experience: The Amara platform allows digital services to be tailored to the passenger profile.
Consistent equipment: All recent fleets (A350, A321LR, B787) are delivered from the factory with the Viasat system.
Enhanced hospitality: The Wi-Fi experience is integrated into Etihad's brand promise, centered on premium comfort.
Technological scalability: The agreement guarantees future access to Viasat innovations without extensive retrofitting.
Comparison: Onboard connectivity of major airlines
| Company | Technology | Blanket | Streaming access | Positioning |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Etihad Airways | Viasat Amara (Ka + LEO) | Global | Yes (Netflix, Prime, YouTube) | Premium digital |
| Emirates | OnAir / Inmarsat | Europe + Asia | Partial | Traditional luxury |
| Qatar Airways | Inmarsat GX | Global | Yes | High-end business |
| Turkish Airlines | Panasonic Avionics | Europe / Asia | Limit | Affordable comfort |
| Lufthansa | Deutsche Telekom FlyNet | Europe / North Atlantic | Yes | European business |
Frequently asked questions about Etihad Airways' digital strategy
When will connectivity be available on all flights?
Deployment is underway; the entire fleet will be equipped by 2026, according to the airline.
Will Wi-Fi be free?
Etihad has not yet announced a pricing model, but premium and membership packages are being considered.
Which aircraft are already equipped?
A321LRs and the new A350s delivered since 2025 are already connected.
Can passengers stream without interruption?
Yes: Amara technology provides a stable stream for Netflix, Prime Video, and YouTube.
What does Etihad gain in the long term?
An image of innovation and increased customer loyalty thanks to a premium digital experience.
A concrete example: the new generation A350
Since April 2025, Etihad's new Airbus A350s have featured the Viasat Amara system. Passengers can watch live TV channels on the seatback screens and also connect their personal devices to access their streaming subscriptions. A true revolution on board.
Key takeaways
Etihad Airways is accelerating its digital transformation. Its partnership with Viasat positions it among the world leaders in air connectivity. For travel professionals, this is a competitive advantage: premium travelers now seek "always-on" experiences. This strategy also strengthens the employer brand: innovation, hospitality, and sustainability converge in a single vision. Finally, keep a close eye on the connectivity business model (free, paid, hybrid); it could become a key differentiator in the sector.
And tomorrow?
I am convinced that connectivity will become the new "business class seat" in air travel: a major deciding factor, as important as comfort or cuisine. By 2026, airlines offering reliable and seamless Wi-Fi will have a decisive strategic advantage. Etihad Airways has just laid the groundwork for this.
Updates
- Last updated: November 20, 2025.
Sources
https://www.etihad.com/en/news/etihad-airways-enhances-guest-experience-with-expanded-viasat-partnership-bringing-seamless-streaming-and-highspeed-connectivity-across-entire-fleet
https://www.viasat.com/news/latest-news/aviation/2025/etihad-airways-selects-viasat-amara-for-full-fleet/
https://www.satellitetoday.com/mobility/2025/11/18/viasat-expands-ifc-deal-with-etihad-airways-and-plans-to-add-leo-to-business-offering/
https://www.investing.com/news/company-news/etihad-airways-expands-viasat-connectivity-across-entire-fleet-93CH-4365126
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