Airlines Push for Free High-Speed Wi-Fi with Starlink Rollout

The days of unreliable in-flight Wi-Fi are fading, according to Air New Zealand CEO Greg Foran, who stated that fast and reliable internet will soon become standard on full-service carriers. Speaking to CNBC’s “Squawk Box Asia,” Foran emphasized that Starlink services, offered by SpaceX, are emerging as the preferred solution for high-speed internet in the skies.

Air New Zealand announced in December 2023 that Starlink would be installed on two domestic aircraft by late 2024, providing passengers with the ability to stream videos and use messaging apps on multiple devices. However, the rollout has been delayed until 2025. Foran mentioned that Starlink services would initially be tested on one turboprop and one jet early next year, with plans to assess a broader rollout after that.

United Airlines has also joined the Starlink movement, signing the largest industry deal for the service in September 2024. Testing will begin in 2025, and Starlink will eventually be deployed across United’s entire fleet of over 1,000 aircraft. The service will offer passengers fast internet access, even in remote regions such as mid-ocean and polar areas, supporting live streaming, work, gaming, and e-commerce.

Both Air New Zealand and United have confirmed that Starlink services will be provided for free, integrated into airfare, eliminating the need for separate Wi-Fi purchases during flights. Foran expressed optimism about the collaboration with Starlink, calling it a “fantastic offering” for passengers.

Starlink is quickly becoming a key player in the aviation industry’s push for better connectivity, with deals signed with Hawaiian Airlines, JSX, and Air France, the latter of which plans to introduce Starlink services across its fleet by summer 2025. As airlines continue to enhance in-flight experiences, Starlink’s high-speed internet promises to be a game-changer for passengers worldwide.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, cnbc.com

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