SpaceX is revolutionizing the in-flight Wi-Fi experience by integrating its satellite internet service, Starlink, into commercial aircraft. Airlines from United Airlines to Hawaiian Airlines are preparing to offer high-speed internet to their passengers.
Starlink Internet Now Active on 500 Aircraft
SpaceX has made significant progress in its efforts to integrate Starlink into commercial flights. According to the company, Starlink’s satellite internet system is now active on 500 aircraft.
The integration of Starlink into in-flight internet services began in the spring of 2022. By the end of 2023, the system was operational on 80 aircraft, with contracts signed for 400 more planes to receive Starlink connections. By 2024, this number has reached 450, and over 2,000 more aircraft are waiting for Starlink installations.
Michael Nicolls, Vice President of SpaceX Starlink Engineering, highlighted the rapid expansion of the system on social media, stating, “Every day, 500 or more aircraft are using Starlink.”
Do More with High-Speed Internet on Your Flight
Starlink offers in-flight internet with download speeds ranging from 40 Mbps to 220 Mbps, providing a much superior performance compared to traditional in-flight Wi-Fi services. During test flights with JSX airline in March 2023, Starlink achieved an average download speed of 126 Mbps and an upload speed of 7.6 Mbps.
United Airlines and Other Airlines Switch to Starlink
United Airlines plans to integrate Starlink connections on hundreds of its aircraft by the end of 2024, with the service expected to be available in spring. In addition, many airlines, including Hawaiian Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Qatar Airways, Air France, and Scandinavian Airlines, aim to offer high-speed internet services through Starlink to their passengers.
Starlink equipment is compatible with various Airbus models as well as Boeing 737 and 777 aircraft.
Costs and Technical Requirements
The transition to Starlink technology requires a significant investment from airlines. Installing a Starlink dish on each aircraft is expected to cost $150,000. Additionally, airlines will need to pay $10,000 per month for unlimited internet data.
SpaceX has also developed the Starlink Mini dish for smaller aircraft. However, this system has not yet received official approval from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and other civil aviation authorities.
© AeroHaber.com
Aviation News and Defense Industry news published on our website cannot be used without proper attribution.
