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Continuous internet access feels more essential than ever. Whether for work, staying in touch with loved ones, or simply streaming your favorite shows, staying connected has become a core part of travel. Thankfully, airlines have prioritized installing high-speed Wi-Fi across their fleets, and Alaska Airlines is no exception.
Alaska recently launched its new loyalty program Atmos Rewards. As part of that change, Alaska announced it will roll out free, ultra-fast Starlink Wi-Fi for members beginning in 2026.
In this guide, we will look at how Alaska’s current Wi-Fi system works today, and explore what you can expect as the airline upgrades to Starlink over the next year.
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Understanding Alaska's Current Wi-Fi Coverage
Nearly all aircraft in Alaska Airlines' fleet have some Wi-Fi access. That means you are likely able to access the internet in some capacity, no matter where you are going on Alaska.
Of course, anyone who has flown knows there are certain to be areas and aircraft less conducive to reliable Wi-Fi access. But for the most part, Alaska Airlines has service available almost everywhere it flies. There are two types of internet connections available on Alaska's planes, depending on which aircraft you are flying.
Related: A Comprehensive Guide to the New Atmos Rewards Program
High-speed satellite Wi-Fi
Even before the Starlink upgrade, most current flights have access to satellite Wi-Fi. This Wi-Fi access is fast enough to stream movies, music, or shows. It is available in all locations that Alaska flies except above the Arctic Circle. The following Alaska Airlines aircraft are currently equipped with satellite Wi-Fi:
- All Boeing 737 MAX
- All Boeing 737-900ERs
- All but one Boeing 737-900
- All Boeing 737-800s
This high-speed option allows you to work or play on the internet like you would at home and is available from gate to gate.
Basic Wi-Fi
A few planes offer basic Wi-Fi, which allows you to send emails, browse the internet, and shop online. However, you cannot stream music or movies or download large attachments.
Alaska Airplanes with basic Wi-Fi:
- All Embraer E175s
- All Boeing 737-700s
- One Boeing 737-900
Flights to Hawaii, Mexico, Costa Rica, and parts of Alaska do not have basic Wi-Fi access.
The Current Cost of Alaska Wi-Fi Access
For now, on flights with high-speed satellite Wi-Fi, you can purchase internet access for a set rate of $8, regardless of the flight length or the aircraft you are on. Compared to other airlines with variable rates, this is a good deal.
Unfortunately, the price for aircraft with only basic Wi-Fi varies from the same $8 fee to as much as $24.99 (specifically on Boeing 737-700s). That's a steep price for basic internet!
Subscription plans are also available for frequent Alaska Airlines flyers who buy Wi-Fi regularly. Through Wifionboard, you can purchase a monthly plan for $49.95, which includes unlimited access onboard Alaska flights. It also offers annual access for $599 per year. While that doesn't provide a discount vs. the monthly cost, it might be easier for you to reimburse with an employer.
Get free Alaska Airlines Wi-Fi as a T-Mobile customer
Eligible T-Mobile customers can access complimentary Wi-Fi on all Alaska Airlines flights with available internet access. The number of flights you can use this benefit on depends on your specific plan.
For example, Go5G Next and Go5G Plus Plans have unlimited internet access with streaming and texting on all flights, while Go5G Plans allow four flights per year of unlimited Wi-Fi access with one hour of access per flight on additional flights. See your plan for more details and to determine eligibility.
Subscribe to Alaska Access for Free Wi-Fi Vouchers
Alaska also offers a subscription service called Alaska Access, which provides access to flight deals before they are public. As an added perk, members receive a voucher for complimentary Wi-Fi on one flight per month. Alaska Access costs $5 per month with a 12-month contract.
Related: T-Mobile Customer? New Magenta Status offers Hilton Honors and Rental Car Benefits
Text and watch movies in-flight — no Wi-Fi purchase required
On flights with Wi-Fi accessibility, Alaska does provide free access to text messaging and entertainment options through its Wi-Fi network. To connect to either service:
- Put your device on airplane mode.
- Select the AlaskaWiFi network.
- Launch your web browser and go to AlaskaWiFi.com.
- Select what you'd like to do: texting or browse entertainment.
Only iMessage, Facebook Messenger, Google messages, Telegram, and WhatsApp will work for free texting, so be sure you have downloaded your preferred app before boarding your flight. Since you'll be using Alaska's Wi-Fi, no data or texting charges apply when you use the free texting service.
According to Alaska's website, its entertainment library contains over 800 free movies and television episodes. You can access these on your personal device when connected to the AlaskaWiFi network. Just remember to bring your headphones!
Related: Best Credit Cards for Streaming Services
Save 20% on Wi-Fi with an Alaska Airlines credit card
Alaska Airlines co-branded credit cards offer cardholders a 20% statement credit on all in-flight purchases, including Wi-Fi. That brings the net cost of satellite internet access down to $6.40 per flight. The two cards that offer this discount are the Atmos™ Rewards Ascent Visa Signature® card and the Atmos™ Rewards Visa Business Card.
Related: Atmos Ascent Visa Card Full Review
- Earn unlimited 3 miles for every $1 spent on eligible Alaska Airlines purchases
- Earn unlimited 2 miles for every $1 spent on eligible gas, EV charging stations, cable, streaming services and local transit (including ride share) purchases
- Earn unlimited 1 mile for every $1 spent on all other eligible purchases
Free Wi-Fi is Coming for Atmos Rewards Members
Alaska's current Wi-Fi coverage may be pretty good, but it's about to take a major leap forward. With recent award program changes, Atmos Rewards members will soon be getting free, ultra-fast Starlink Wi-Fi. The rollout begins in 2026 on select Alaska and Hawaiian aircraft, with a full fleet-wide installation expected by 2027.
The best part? Access will be completely free for Atmos Rewards members. There’s no minimum status level or flight requirement, so even casual Alaska flyers can enjoy the benefit.
In addition, T-Mobile customers will receive an enhanced experience with ad-free sign-on and other to-be-announced perks.
Final Thoughts
If staying connected in the air is important to you, Alaska Airlines offers several reliable options. Travelers can take advantage of free texting, complimentary streaming entertainment, and reasonably priced high-speed internet on most flights.
With the planned rollout of free Starlink Wi-Fi for Atmos Rewards members beginning in 2026, Alaska is taking another step toward making in-flight connectivity more accessible. For frequent travelers, these upgrades show Alaska’s commitment to improving the onboard experience and keeping passengers connected throughout their journey.
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