SAS is introducing in-flight internet services from next spring on routes to Scandinavia from Heathrow.
Broadband services will include full internet access, online shopping, movies and other video content, games, destination information and bookable services at the destination city such as taxis or hotel bookings, and real-time flight information.
London to Stockholm and Oslo will be the first routes where this service will be available. The carrier claims it will be the first to offer in-flight connectivity on short haul flights.
The service will be offered free of charge to business class and economy extra passengers and as a fee-based option for travellers in economy.
Business marketing and PR manager Jeff Rebello said: ‘When time equals money, we think we offer an unrivalled service to the business traveller.
“Not only are we consistently far more punctual than our competitors, both low cost and scheduled, but we will be offering the opportunity to stay connected online from next spring, meaning both companies and employees will make better use of their time, be more productive which ultimately leads to saving money.”
SAS is discounting economy extra fares by 10% for bookings and travel made by end of November.
Discounted one way fares on the Heathrow-Stockholm route in economy extra start at £542, while economy fares start at £118 on the same route. Economy extra offers business class check-in, fast track security and a three course meal on board.
SAS also claimed to be amongst the most punctual with 93% of flights in September arriving on time compared with Ryanair at 73% and easyJet at 65%. Since May, SAS’ punctuality has been consistently over 90%, according to the airline.