Looking for the best Wi-Fi on your flight? Experts reveal which seats have the strongest connection

In an ever more digitally interconnected world, people who are on the go rely on getting a good Wi-Fi signal wherever they may be. On a flight, travelers can purchase an internet upgrade, but they may just be throwing their money out the window according to Faye Hwang.

The business development manager at LDShop, a gaming top-up platform, shared some professional tips with Travel + Leisure on how to get the fastest Wi-Fi connection on a flight.

Choice of seat on a flight can mean up to 30% faster Wi-Fi

One would think that paying top dollar for a first-class seat, you would be privy to having a top-notch Wi-Fi connection. However, that would be wrong.

Everyone on a flight is using the same internet connection. So, just like with your home or office router, those closest to the signal get the fastest connection.

“People don’t usually realize that their seat choice can make or break their Wi-Fi experience,” Hwang said. “Understanding how these systems work gives you a real advantage when booking your next flight.”

She explained that there are two types of internet connections on aircraft, either satellite-based or air-to-ground systems. Both of these have difficulty distributing Wi-Fi signals evenly, but the equipment is typically found in the same place, on the fuselage roof around the middle of the plane.

Passengers in the middle of the plane generally get 20% to 30% faster Wi-Fi speeds than those at either extreme, front or back, Hwang explained. Furthermore, those with window seats in this section get an even better signals.

Things that could slow down your Wi-Fi signal while inflight

Hwang warns that being next to an emergency exit could hamper your device’s connectivity. This is due to the walls being thicker as well as additional equipment that can interfere with the Wi-Fi signal explained Hwang.

Also keep in mind that the more people using Wi-Fi on the aircraft will also slow down your connection. Hwang says that “smart timing makes as much a difference as seat selection.”

She recommends avoiding peak usage times, typically around meal service. Hwang herself always takes advantage of the first hour after takeoff to connect to the in-flight Wi-Fi when fewer passengers are online.

Another tip she has is to make sure to turn off automatic updates and closing background applications that are continually trying to sync data. This will free up the amount of bandwidth you need for using the internet on your device.

Looking for the best Wi-Fi on your flight? Experts reveal which seats have the strongest connection

Tags: