LOT Polish Airlines Onboard WiFi: Availability, Speed, and How to Connect

LOT Polish Airlines is entering a new era of digital transformation and passenger satisfaction. As global travel expectations evolve, the Polish flag carrier is stepping up by integrating high-speed inflight WiFi, modern cabin designs, and enhanced entertainment features. With the upcoming launch of satellite-powered internet across its Dreamliner fleet, LOT is ready to compete with the most connected airlines in Europe.

Let’s explore how LOT is enhancing connectivity, what passengers can expect onboard, and how these changes shape the future of inflight comfort.

✈️ Introduction to LOT Polish Airlines

Founded in 1929, LOT Polish Airlines (Polskie Linie Lotnicze LOT) is one of the world’s oldest operating airlines and Poland’s national flag carrier. Headquartered in Warsaw and a proud member of the Star Alliance, LOT serves over 120 destinations across Europe, Asia, and North America.

With a growing fleet of Boeing 787 Dreamliners, Embraer regional jets, and Boeing 737s, the airline is positioning itself as a key player in Central and Eastern Europe. As part of its modernization strategy, LOT has turned its focus toward digital experiences, cabin upgrades, and premium service offerings.

? LOT's New WiFi Upgrade Announcement (2025–2026 Rollout)

In a major step forward, LOT Polish Airlines announced a partnership with Viasat, a global leader in satellite communications. This move will see 15 of LOT’s Boeing 787-8 and 787-9 Dreamliners equipped with Ka-band satellite-based inflight internet, powered by Viasat’s advanced connectivity technology.

?️ Timeline: The WiFi rollout is expected to be completed by early 2026, bringing reliable, high-speed internet access to passengers on LOT’s long-haul routes.

? According to LOT’s announcement:

“This initiative, part of a comprehensive cabin upgrade, will provide our passengers with high-speed Wi-Fi for the first time, enhancing their travel experience on our global routes.”

The partnership is a major milestone that positions LOT alongside leading European carriers like Lufthansa, Air France, and British Airways in delivering modern connectivity solutions.

? Aircraft and Routes Offering WiFi

WiFi will be initially available only on LOT’s long-haul Boeing 787-8 and 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft. These planes primarily service intercontinental routes, including:

• Warsaw to New York (JFK and Newark)

• Warsaw to Chicago (ORD)

• Warsaw to Toronto

• Warsaw to Tokyo

• Warsaw to Seoul

• Warsaw to Los Angeles

With over 15 Dreamliners slated for the retrofit, passengers on most transatlantic and Asian routes will benefit from inflight connectivity by 2026. Short-haul aircraft like Embraer E-Jets and Boeing 737s are not currently scheduled for WiFi upgrades.

Compared to regional competitors like KLM and Lufthansa, LOT’s rollout is late but promises a premium experiencethrough Viasat’s fast and reliable Ka-band satellite service.

? How to Connect to LOT Inflight WiFi

Connecting to WiFi on a LOT Dreamliner will be designed to be user-friendly and multilingual. While final details are still forthcoming, based on Viasat’s typical airline configurations, passengers can expect the following process:

1. Enable airplane mode and connect to the onboard WiFi network (SSID such as “LOT_WiFi”).

2. Launch your web browser; the WiFi portal will open automatically.

3. Select a WiFi plan based on your needs (streaming, browsing, email, etc.).

4. Enter payment details or loyalty credentials if applicable.

5. Enjoy your connection across smartphones, tablets, and laptops.

LOT is also expected to integrate WiFi access and entertainment through the LOT mobile app, providing a seamless digital inflight experience.

? WiFi Plans, Access, and Payment Options

While LOT has not yet revealed pricing, insights from other Viasat-equipped airlines suggest several options:

• Free messaging plans (text-only access via WhatsApp, iMessage)

• Basic browsing plans (~$6–$10 for short access)

• Full internet access (~$15–$25 for entire flight)

• Streaming passes (suitable for Netflix, YouTube, Spotify)

? Cabin Class Access:

• Business class passengers may receive free access or premium packages

• Premium Economy and Economy passengers will likely need to purchase access

• Payment options will include credit/debit cards and possibly Miles & More loyalty points

The airline may also launch WiFi bundles or subscriptions for frequent flyers, especially business travelers.

? Performance: Speed, Coverage, and User Experience

Viasat’s Ka-band connectivity is known for high-speed internet and consistent global coverage, particularly ideal for long-haul routes over the Atlantic and Pacific.

? What You Can Expect:

• Speeds up to 20 Mbps per user depending on usage and congestion

• Smooth access to email, social media, video streaming, and even VPN services

• Minimal latency and strong performance during entire flight duration

Many airlines using Viasat—such as JetBlue, Qantas, and American Airlines—report positive passenger feedback and high satisfaction with the inflight internet experience.

? Additional Onboard Enhancements with the Upgrade

The WiFi upgrade is just one part of LOT's sweeping Dreamliner retrofit program. Passengers will also enjoy:

• Modernized cabins with refreshed interiors

• New ergonomic seating across all classes

• Upgraded inflight entertainment systems with HD screens

• USB ports and charging stations at every seat

• Redesigned lighting and ambience for greater comfort

These upgrades signal LOT’s goal to not just keep pace with competitors but leap ahead in inflight experience.

? Tips for Optimizing Inflight WiFi Use

To make the most of your WiFi connection:

1. Use data-efficient browsers like Opera Mini or Brave

2. Disable background apps and automatic updates

3. Pre-download large files and streaming content before boarding

4. Use VPN software for enhanced privacy and secure access

5. Log out from unneeded apps to reduce bandwidth usage

These practices can help stretch your session and improve speed for critical tasks.

? LOT’s Vision for the Future of Passenger Connectivity

LOT's partnership with Viasat and full Dreamliner cabin modernization mark a new chapter in its strategy to compete globally. Key long-term goals include:

• Fleet-wide digital upgrades over the next 5–10 years

• Enhanced loyalty integration through Miles & More

• Sustainability through next-gen aircraft and lighter onboard systems

• Becoming a premium option for business travelers in Central Europe

The airline is committed to investing in technology, comfort, and global accessibility as it expands operations and upgrades infrastructure.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is WiFi currently available on all LOT Polish Airlines flights?

No, WiFi is currently being installed and will only be available on select long-haul Boeing 787 aircraft by early 2026.

2. What aircraft will have WiFi by 2026?

Fifteen of LOT’s Boeing 787-8 and 787-9 Dreamliners will be equipped with Viasat Ka-band inflight connectivity.

3. Can I stream Netflix or YouTube on LOT inflight WiFi?

Yes, Viasat’s high-speed WiFi is expected to support video streaming on platforms like Netflix, YouTube, and Spotify.

4. How do I connect to the WiFi on a LOT Dreamliner?

Enable airplane mode, connect to the onboard network, open your browser, and follow the login steps via the LOT WiFi portal.

5. Will WiFi be free or paid on LOT flights?

Free messaging may be offered, but full browsing and streaming access will likely require a paid plan or be complimentary in premium cabins.

6. What is Viasat and how does it enhance inflight internet?

Viasat is a global satellite internet provider known for delivering high-speed, low-latency WiFi across airline fleets using Ka-band satellite technology.

7. Are there other upgrades coming to LOT aircraft?

Yes, in addition to WiFi, the Dreamliner retrofit includes new cabin interiors, advanced inflight entertainment, and improved seating.