Airline passengers today expect the same level of connectivity in the air as they do at home—fast, seamless access to high-quality Wi-Fi and entertainment from takeoff to landing. For airlines, delivering on that expectation is no longer optional; it has become a key differentiator that directly impacts customer satisfaction, loyalty, and overall brand perception.
At the same time, airlines have made significant investments in in-flight connectivity infrastructure and are increasingly focused on generating returns through monetisation. This comes as passenger preferences shift toward free onboard Wi-Fi, creating a balancing act: offering a premium, frictionless experience while still driving measurable commercial value.
To address this challenge, SES is working with Google to simplify how Android users connect to and interact with airline onboard portals. The collaboration aims to improve engagement while delivering a more consistent and intuitive experience for passengers using Android devices.
According to Lars Bergstrom, Android Platform Director of Engineering, the initiative focuses on removing common pain points that passengers face when trying to get online mid-flight. By reducing login friction and simplifying the connection process, travelers can quickly access services such as streaming, gaming, and work tools, while also benefiting from familiar features like autofill and secure payment options.
The in-flight connectivity experience often begins with frustration—slow portal launches, confusing redirects, and repeated login steps. To tackle this, SES has worked with Google as an Early Access Partner to create a smoother connection between its multi-orbit satellite network and Android devices.
On SES-enabled flights, when an Android device connects to the onboard network, the airline’s portal can now automatically open within an Android Custom Tab. This allows passengers to access full browser functionality instantly, reducing the time and effort needed to get online. Features such as saved passwords and payment details further streamline the experience, making it easier for users to engage with onboard services.
While simplifying access is critical, airlines also need to keep passengers engaged once they are online. A more seamless experience encourages longer interactions with the onboard portal, which can translate into higher participation in loyalty programmes, increased advertising revenue, and stronger e-commerce performance. It also opens the door for premium upgrades, personalised offers, and additional ancillary services.
To support this, SES and Google have introduced Android Custom Tabs for captive portal login. Unlike traditional web-based login systems that disappear once a user navigates away, this approach keeps the airline portal accessible in the background. Passengers can switch between apps and return to the portal at any time, much like toggling between mobile applications.
Aaron Goldberg, Director of Aviation Product Management at SES, noted that the update not only improves ease of access but also strengthens the airline’s ability to maintain a branded presence throughout the journey. With the portal always within reach, airlines can deliver more timely and relevant offers—from onboard shopping and premium content to targeted advertising and partnerships.
The introduction of Android Custom Tabs on SES-equipped aircraft marks an industry-first approach to in-flight connectivity, effectively turning the onboard portal into an app-like experience. Looking ahead, Google is expected to expand similar capabilities to other environments that rely on Wi-Fi access portals, including hotels, transport hubs, and public venues.
