British Airways is adding a new phone freebie for passengers from next month
British Airways passengers will be able to use messaging apps on flights free of charge from next month.
This change will kick off over two weeks beginning on 3 April, allowing travellers to use text functions on favourite apps like WhatsApp, iMessage, Facebook Messenger and Teams for no extra cost. With Wi-Fi available on all Gatwick aircraft and more than 80% of those based at Heathrow, the goal is for the entire fleet to be fitted with this service by the end of 2025.
To make the most of this free onboard messaging, passengers have to sign up to British Airways' loyalty scheme, with only one device per person is allowed. For those wanting more, such as sending or receiving images, video clips or attachments, browsing the web or streaming content, they can buy passes ranging from £4.99 to £21.99.
This enhanced Wi-Fi access forms part of British Airways' massive £7 billion "transformation plan". It features upgrades like a new mobile app and website to better help customers when flights are cancelled. The airline confirmed these improvements will mean passengers book seats on alternative flights even those by different airlines. Plus, those entitled to hotel rooms and meals will be sent vouchers directly to their gadgets. Passengers entitled to hotel rooms and food will also be sent vouchers direct to their electronic devices.
BA has also released new economy seat designs (DAILY MIRROR)Difficulties accessing call centres or finding staff at airports means customers of all airlines are often forced to pay up front for food and accommodation during disruption, and later submit claims for reimbursement. This leads many passengers to miss out on what they should receive under consumer laws because they are unaware of their rights or cannot afford the costs.
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Television presenter Steph McGovern hosted an event for the airline in the City of London on Monday night, at which she told bosses: "I'll be honest with you, I hate the app." Chief commercial officer Colm Lacy replied: "I wish I had a pound every time I heard that statement."
He added: "Having a new technology platform allows us to do things that we just can't do on our existing platform. It's all about personalisation."
Other areas included in the "transformation plan" are new short-haul and first class seats, using AI to boost flight punctuality and aircraft reliability, a new lounge at Dubai Airport, and the return of flights between Heathrow and Kuala Lumpur, and between Gatwick and Bangkok.
British Airways chief executive Sean Doyle said: "We're on a journey to a better BA for our people and for our customers, underpinned by a transformation programme that will see us invest £7 billion over the next two years to revolutionise our business."
"We're going to take delivery of new aircraft, introduce new cabins, elevate our customer care, focus on operational performance and address our environmental impact by reducing our emissions and creating a culture of sustainability."
"We're also heavily investing in the development of a new ba.com website and app and are laser-focused on transforming our business and fixing any pain points for our customers."
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