JetBlue to Add Amazon Kuiper Wi-Fi by 2028

JetBlue Airways has announced plans to enhance its passenger connectivity by equipping part of its fleet with Amazon’s Project Kuiper satellite internet service. The airline will install the technology on about a quarter of its aircraft, with the rollout beginning in 2027 and expected to be complete by 2028, according to JetBlue President Marty St. George.

Project Kuiper, Amazon’s low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite network, is designed to deliver high-speed, low-latency broadband to underserved regions and industries, including aviation. For JetBlue, the partnership marks a step forward in its long-standing effort to provide free, reliable Wi-Fi to travelers.

St. George emphasized that the initiative is part of JetBlue’s commitment to enhancing the in-flight experience while keeping pace with technological advances. “We’re excited to be an early partner with Amazon’s Kuiper system, which we believe can deliver faster, more consistent service for our customers,” he said during a media call.

The installation will initially cover newer aircraft types, though JetBlue did not specify which models. Currently, the airline operates a fleet of more than 300 aircraft, primarily Airbus A320 family jets and Embraer E190s, with Airbus A220-300s being phased in.

Amazon launched its first test satellites in 2023 and is ramping up toward a full constellation deployment by the end of the decade. The collaboration with JetBlue signals growing airline interest in leveraging satellite broadband as passenger expectations for seamless streaming, video calls, and connectivity in the air continue to rise.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com