Starlink Expands High-Speed WiFi to 43 Global Airlines

Space Exploration Technologies Corp. is expanding its Starlink satellite internet service across the commercial aviation industry, with 43 airlines now announcing deals to install the high-speed WiFi. The service offers connection speeds up to 215 megabits per second, enabling high-definition streaming and video calling, which significantly outperforms traditional in-flight internet options.

Qatar Airways recently launched the service with a dedicated media event, providing free access to all passengers. While the technology allows for gate-to-gate connectivity, some carriers, including United Airlines and Lufthansa, have chosen to restrict voice calls on their flights.

SpaceX President Gwynne Shotwell noted that the availability of the service is beginning to influence passenger behavior, with some travelers selecting specific flights or layovers based on Starlink access. Full fleet implementation across the partnering airlines is expected to take several years, as aircraft must be taken out of service for the necessary hardware installations.