The leading German airline, Lufthansa, said that it will offer internet access on nearly its entire network by the end of next year, beginning with some flights to North America.

From Wednesday, “Lufthansa will be the first airline to offer its customers broadband internet access on intercontinental routes,” a statement said.

The German carrier first offered the service in January 2003 but withdrew it three years later for reasons of cost.

The new system, dubbed FlyNet and developed by Panasonic of Japan with Deutsche Telekom, will provide unlimited access to passengers with a laptop or smartphone for €10.95 or 3,500 frequent flier miles per hour.

A 24-hour connection will be available for €19.95 or 7,000 miles.

The service will be free, however, on FlyNet-equipped aircraft until January 31, 2011 the airline said.