Our answer
It’s getting a lot better, but it depends on the airline and the plane.
Is it free? More and more airlines now give free Wi-Fi, often to members of their free frequent flyer program, and some include it for business class passengers. Delta and United have been rolling out free, faster Wi-Fi for their loyalty members, and several international airlines, such as Qatar Airways, have added free high-speed Wi-Fi on many aircraft. Others still charge, or only give free messaging.
Is it fast enough for Zoom? On planes with the newest satellite systems, often yes for joining a call with video, though it can drop over oceans or remote areas. On older systems it’s fine for email and messaging but too slow or patchy for video.
A few practical things:
- Many airlines ask you not to make voice or video calls out loud in the cabin, to keep it quiet for others. Use headphones and keep it short, or join with your camera on and microphone muted.
- Sign up for the airline’s loyalty program before you fly, as that’s often what unlocks free Wi-Fi.
- Download anything important before you board, just in case.
If you need to work on board, tell us and we’ll pick flights with the best Wi-Fi on your route.
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Answered by the Global Business Flights team, booking business and first class since 2017. Last reviewed November 2026.
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