Alaska Airlines Launches Starlink Wi-Fi Across Regional Fleet

Alaska Airlines has officially debuted Starlink-powered in-flight Wi-Fi, marking a major step forward in its connectivity strategy as the carrier works toward offering faster, more reliable internet across its fleet. The airline has begun installations on four Embraer E175 regional jets, with plans to complete a fleetwide rollout by 2027.

The Starlink service uses low-Earth-orbit (LEO) satellites, which operate much closer to the Earth than traditional geostationary satellites. This allows for lower latency, higher speeds, and more consistent coverage, particularly over remote regions and challenging terrain. Alaska Airlines says the technology will significantly improve the passenger experience by enabling streaming, browsing, and work-related connectivity comparable to ground-based internet.

The initial deployment on Embraer E175 aircraft is a key milestone for Alaska, as the regional fleet plays an important role in feeding traffic into the airline’s major hubs on the U.S. West Coast and in Alaska. Over time, the carrier plans to extend Starlink installations across its mainline fleet, aligning with its long-term investment in onboard technology and customer experience.

Alaska Airlines joins a growing list of carriers turning to Starlink for in-flight connectivity. United Airlines has already announced plans to equip a large portion of its fleet with the system, while JetBlue and several international airlines are also adopting or evaluating LEO-based solutions. The shift reflects broader industry frustration with legacy Wi-Fi systems, which often struggle with slow speeds, dropped connections, and limited bandwidth during peak usage.

For Alaska Airlines, the move supports its brand positioning around reliability and innovation, particularly as competition intensifies on transcontinental and premium leisure routes. Improved connectivity is increasingly seen as a differentiator for travelers, especially business passengers and frequent flyers who expect seamless internet access throughout the journey.

The rollout also aligns with Alaska’s broader digital strategy, which includes investments in mobile platforms, loyalty program enhancements, and onboard product upgrades. As Starlink installations continue, Alaska Airlines aims to deliver a more consistent and future-ready connectivity experience, reinforcing its commitment to modernizing the passenger journey while keeping pace with evolving traveler expectations.

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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com