Virgin Australia trials free Wi-Fi messaging

Virgin Australia is considering more ways to keep travellers connected above the clouds, with the airline now offering free messaging via Wi-Fi on selected flights.

A spokesperson for the airline confirmed a “limited trial of complimentary in-flight messaging” to Executive Traveller will run through to 24 November 2025.

The pilot program is limited to two Virgin Australia 737s “operating select domestic and international routes.”

Passengers on those flights with a Velocity Frequent Flyer number listed on their booking can join the plane’s Wi-Fi hotspot and use messaging apps such as iMessage, WhatsApp, WeChat, Line, Messenger and Google Messages free of charge.

However, those sessions are limited to text messaging, without photos or any other attachments.

The airline says the trial “is part of Virgin Australia’s ongoing efforts to test new products and experiences with guests and gather feedback to help shape future in-flight offerings.”

Virgin already offers free Wi-Fi to business class passengers, Velocity Platinum and Platinum Plus frequent flyers and members of the invitation-only Beyond program.

For everyone else, the costs are $9.75 for a 30-minute session or $19.95 to be online for the duration of the flight.

There’s currently no messaging-only package.

While rival Qantas and partner Qatar Airways provide inflight Wi-Fi free of charge – and in the case of Qatar Airways, that’s a blazingly fast Starlink connection averaging 100-150Mbps – some overseas airlines limit complimentary Wi-Fi to messaging.

Also read: Virgin’s strict new baggage rules – who wins, who loses?