Some Southwest Airlines customers are getting the hook-up..
Earlier this year, the airline announced major changes to end its decades-old “bags fly free” policy and to start assigning seats to flyers. Now, a positive change could be taking flight.
Currently, the airline is testing free in-flight WiFi to members of its Rapid Rewards loyalty program, The Points Guy reported.
From Aug. 8-14, the carrier will make its onboard internet complimentary to loyalty members, compared to the usual $8 bill for Wi-Fi on board.
This will be the second time this year that Southwest has pre-launched free in-flight WiFi as a trial to assess how customers use Wi-Fi, live TV and movie selections.
“Before we consider offering free in-flight Wi-Fi beyond this limited offer, we need to ensure a quality product, and tests like this provide valuable information and insights,” Southwest told TPG.
“We will use the findings from both tests to enhance our Wi-Fi offering and continue to strengthen what we offer customers to meet their needs,” the airline said this week.
Airlines expect that when the internet is free, more flyers will use the service. Carriers often test out the free connection to see how it holds up with more fliers utilizing it at once.
Some — but not all — Rapid Rewards members received an email notifying them of the offer, according to ATX Jetsetter.
According to the notification email, the free wi-fi trial is an effort to thank passengers for their loyalty.
Customers need to either log in with their Rapids Rewards number or sign up for the loyalty program prior to departure or while flying in order to access the free browsing and streaming connection.
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