Vistara has revamped the pricing plans for its inflight internet service, removing data caps from the pricing equation and adding a premium option which supports “all streaming protocols.” The newest tier comes in more expensive than prior offerings, but the lack of data caps makes it a more compelling offering for travelers.
Previously Vistara offered four options for passengers, messaging and browsing each at a basic or premium tier. Alas, the premium browsing package topped out at just 200 MB of data allowed. The new browsing package prices similar to the old premium offering, but removes the 200 MB cap. Passengers can also elect to pay more for the streaming package. Similarly, at the lower end the messaging option remains, priced in between the old premium and basic tiers.
One data cap package remains for the carrier. Business class travelers and top tier elites still receive a complimentary session on board, but it remains a 50 MB allocation rather than one of the new data packages.
Also of note, the prices advertised exclude tax. That is an incredibly rare scenario (I cannot think of any other airline that does the same) for the IFC world.
Vistara’s in-flight internet service is delivered via a partnership between Panasonic Avionics and Nelco, with the latter providing the local integration services necessary for Indian airlines to get online. The service is active on international routes operated by Vistara’s 787-9 and A321neo aircraft.
The timing of this change aligns with an announcement by Panasonic Avionics, the underlying satellite connectivity provider, that significantly more bandwidth is now available around the globe. Given access to more capacity, it makes some sense that the companies could cooperate to expand the options available to passengers, especially in support of streaming services. Or it is just a fun coincidence. But the bulk of Vistara’s routes offering inflight Wi-Fi on board operate in a travel corridor where PAC just doubled its capacity.
Read more:
- Vistara launches inflight wifi service on Dreamliner fleet
- Vistara extends in-flight WiFi service in India
- Vistara confirms Panasonic, Nelco partnership for inflight WiFi service
- Vistara aims for inflight wifi service with Nelco
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