The airlines said the new service would allow customers to remain connected with the world by being able to send text messages and e-mails and surf the internet during their flight.
A statement from the airlines' office in Nigeria said, "On our specially designed inflight website we also offer a broad range of free and up to date services including live television news and sports channels, relevant airline and destination information."
In partnership with Panasonic Avionics, Air France and KLM said they would conduct a trial phase throughout the rest of 2013 on two Boeing 777-300s.
During this time, the carriers said passengers could connect to the internet using their Wi-Fi enabled smartphones, laptops or tablets at a fixed rate and use their mobile phones for text messages or email, no matter what travel class they are in.
According to them, the two Wi-Fi equipped aircraft will operate on several long-haul destinations during the trial.
The statement added, "During the pilot phase we will offer hourly and full-flight fees:EUR 10.95 per hour or EUR 19.95 for the full flight, applicable for all classes. These fees are in line with industry average. Travellers can pay for their internet access by credit card. Mobile phone usage (for text and data) will be billed to the phone users according to their own roaming agreements. Access to the in-flight website will be free of charge."
According to the airline, wireless service -- whether the on-board portal or satellite internet -- will commence once the flight has reached 20,000 feet, shortly after take-off.
It added, "With the in-flight connectivity test, Air France and KLM are adapting to their customers' new travel habits, while also surprising them with new services. During this test phase, customers will be asked to share their comments, suggestions and expectations and therefore contribute to the improvement of these services."
The statement quoted the Chairman and CEO of Air France, Mr. Alexandre de Juniac, as saying, "By jointly launching inflight Wi-Fi and data transmission, Air France and KLM are continuing to inno-vate. This inflight connectivity test phase on long-haul flights perfectly integrates our ongoing strategy to offer our customers even more new products and services."
It also quoted KLM President & CEO Peter Hartman as stating, "Connectivity is a significant investment in a brand new area where technology is still under development." "Being permanently connected is part of our customers' daily lives. We are aiming to define the best possible product and system to fit their needs and wishes. We're confident that, in the future, all our passengers will be able to remain connected when travelling to and from our hubs at Paris Charles de Gaulle and Amsterdam Airport Schiphol."
Meanwhile, Air France-KLM has also finalised a firm order for 25 Airbus A350 planes. Another statement said the signing took place at the 50th International Air Show at Le Bourget near Paris.
The A350-900 will be equipped with Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines, the only engine offered for this aircraft by the manufacturer.
With the latest technology, the Trent XWB engine will significantly contribute to the performance of the Airbus A350.
According to the airline, the aircraft will reduce fuel consumption by over 15 per cent compared to current aircraft and will also significantly reduce noise and gas emissions, confirming the group's commitment to the environment and sustainable development.
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