Russian airline Aeroflot has confirmed Wi-Fi internet will be available on 26 long-haul airplanes by the end of the year.

Some 22 Airbus 330 and four Boeing 777 airliners will be connected to internet through satellite-based onboard Wi-Fi, many in the first quarter of the year.

Aeroflot’s long-haul fleet’s backbone is formed by Airbus 330s, with the forthcoming delivery of new Boeing 777s designed to significantly strengthen the air company’s long distance flights capacities.

Aeroflot will continue introducing onboard Wi-Fi Internet program on Boeing 777 aircraft, making Wi-Fi Internet available on six B777 in 2014, three B777 in 2015 and three B777 in 2016.

Aeroflot is developing its in-flight connectivity program in partnership with OnAir - the global in-flight connectivity services provider, using Inmarsat’s satellite networks.

OnAir Company was incorporated in 2005 and is owned by SITA, the global IT solutions provider to the air transport world and Airbus aircraft manufacturer.

Aeroflot was the first Russian company to provide its passengers with on board mobile connection and internet access.

“The onboard internet program has being implemented in Aeroflot since 2010.

“By granting the access to the worldwide web through global Wi-Fi service Aeroflot marks the new stage of the mentioned program, significantly expanding the possibilities of its flying internet users.

“This service is particularly popular among business travelers, who need to stay connected all the time,” said Vitaly Saveliev, Aeroflot chief executive.