LATAM Airlines Becomes the First South American Carrier to Offer Wi-Fi on Long-Haul Flights

Mundo Trip | April 2, 2026

LATAM Airlines has made history by becoming the first airline based in South America to offer in-flight Wi-Fi connectivity on long-haul routes. The milestone was reached on March 25, 2026, when a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner operated the rotation between Santiago de Chile, São Paulo, and Madrid, the first long-haul LATAM flight to fly with live internet connectivity onboard.

How It Works and What Passengers Can Expect

The new Wi-Fi service will sit alongside LATAM's existing seatback entertainment platform, known as LATAM Play, giving passengers two separate ways to stay entertained and connected during long flights.

In the first stage of the rollout, all passengers will be able to use real-time messaging services completely free of charge. This means apps like WhatsApp and iMessage will be available to use throughout the flight at no cost. At a later stage, LATAM plans to expand the service further to include full web browsing and access to work-related applications. These additional features will initially be available to members of the LATAM Pass loyalty program.

The connectivity service is being provided by satellite operator ViaSat, one of the leading names in aviation satellite internet technology.

The Investment Behind the Rollout

This is not a small or experimental move. LATAM Airlines has committed around $60 million to fit its entire long-haul fleet of 60 aircraft with satellite-based Wi-Fi connectivity. The full rollout is expected to be completed between 2026 and 2028, meaning passengers across all of LATAM's widebody routes can expect to see the service available on their flights within the next two years.

The Wi-Fi rollout is part of a much larger upgrade program that LATAM has been rolling out across its widebody fleet. This has already included a full redesign of its business class and economy class cabins on its Boeing 787 Dreamliners, the introduction of a new premium economy class product, and a refresh of in-flight menus and amenity kits.

A First for South American Aviation

While Wi-Fi on flights has been available on many US, European, and Asian carriers for years, no airline based in South America had previously offered the service on long-haul international routes. LATAM's launch changes that, bringing the region in line with global connectivity standards for the first time.

It is also worth noting that LATAM is not entirely new to Wi-Fi. As of March 2026, almost its entire narrowbody fleet, the aircraft used for shorter domestic and regional flights, has already been fitted with in-flight connectivity. This latest announcement extends that connectivity to the airline's long-haul international operations for the first time.

What This Means for Travelers

In-Flight Wi-Fi Benefits

For anyone flying LATAM on routes between South America and Europe, or on long domestic routes within South America, this is a genuinely useful upgrade. Being able to message family and friends, check emails, or stay connected to work during what can be 10 to 14-hour flights makes a real difference, especially on overnight journeys. The fact that messaging is free from the start makes this immediately accessible to all passengers regardless of loyalty status.

As the rollout expands to the full fleet over the next two years, more and more travelers on LATAM's international routes will benefit from the service, making the airline a much more competitive option for business travelers and frequent flyers who need to stay connected in the air.

Please Note: If you are planning a trip to South America or have a LATAM flight coming up, this is a positive development that will make your journey more comfortable and connected. Wi-Fi availability will expand gradually across the fleet through 2028, so it is worth checking with us at Mundo Trip to confirm connectivity on your specific flight before you book. Our team is on hand to help you find the best available fares and options on LATAM and all other major carriers. Get in touch with us today.

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The airline industry is improving fast in 2026, and new services, routes, and passenger upgrades are being announced regularly. At Mundo Trip, we keep track of every development so you always know what to expect before you fly. Whether you are planning a trip to South America or anywhere else in the world, our team is ready to help you find the best flights and travel options available. Follow us for the latest travel news and get in touch whenever you are ready to book.