In-Flight Internet Coming Soon to Russian Skies

By 2027 or 2028, Russian airline passengers may finally get what global travelers have long demanded: reliable in-flight internet.

According to Dmitry Agafonov, deputy CEO of the Russian telecom engineering firm Bureau 1440, internet connectivity will become available onboard Russian-made aircraft within the next two years. The service will initially be rolled out on domestically produced planes due to hardware integration and certification constraints, but broader adoption across foreign-manufactured fleets is expected to follow.

Why now? Because demand is undeniable. A growing number of passengers—67% globally and in Russia, according to industry surveys—consider internet access during flight not just a luxury, but a necessity. Whether it's replying to work emails or streaming mid-air, the sky is no longer the limit when it comes to staying connected.

The move aligns with Russia’s broader strategy to modernize its aviation ecosystem and reduce reliance on foreign technology. Once implemented, the onboard internet will likely be powered by domestic satellites and ground infrastructure, further reinforcing the country’s push for digital sovereignty.

As Agafonov puts it, “We’re not just bringing the internet to aircraft—we’re bringing Russian engineering to the stratosphere.”