British Airways to offer wi-fi on short-haul flights

British Airways will offer wi-fi internet access on its short-haul flights from 2017, its owner IAG has announced.

IAG-owned Aer Lingus, Iberia and Vueling will also provide wi-fi.

Many rival airlines already offer internet access during flights, with some providing it free of charge.

But one travel expert warned in-flight internet was often unreliable and was unlikely to influence travellers' airline choices.

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"My first experience with wi-fi on a flight was about five years ago, when it was offered for free by Norwegian," said Simon Calder, travel editor at the Independent.

"There has not been much take-up because it's not always reliable and many people actually want to disconnect on a flight.

"But it may be that BA and IAG have cracked it and can offer something vaguely reliable."

IAG said up to 341 of its planes would be fitted with wi-fi technology provided by satellite communications firm Inmarsat.