easyJet turns to Starlink as airlines race to improve in-flight connectivity

easyJet is set to introduce onboard internet for the first time after signing a deal with Starlink, the satellite broadband service operated by Elon Musk’s SpaceX.

The move will allow passengers to browse, stream and stay connected from take-off to landing, something that has become increasingly expected by travellers who are used to being online almost everywhere else.

It’s also another win for Starlink, which has emerged as one of the aviation industry’s hottest technologies, with airlines around the world racing to upgrade ageing inflight connectivity systems.

What is Starlink?

SpaceX‘s low-Earth-orbit satellite network was created by Elon Musk to deliver high-speed broadband using thousands of low-Earth orbit satellites.

Unlike traditional inflight WiFi systems, Starlink’s low-latency network can support streaming, cloud-based work, online gaming and even video calls, making it one of the most sought-after connectivity solutions in commercial aviation.

Fleet-wide rollout planned

The airline plans to install Starlink technology across its A320, A320neo and A321neo fleets, with the rollout expected to begin in 2027.

It’s expected to be completed in early 2028, making internet access a standard feature on many easyJet flights.

Change of heart for easyJet

The announcement marks a change in direction for easyJet.

Earlier this year, Chief executive Kenton Jarvis suggested the airline was unlikely to adopt Starlink’s connectivity technology.

However in a statement today, Jarvis said: “In an increasingly digital world, staying connected matters more than ever to many of our customers, whether that’s holidaymakers looking to unwind with in-flight entertainment, or our business customers keeping up to speed with what’s happening on the ground.

“Innovation is in easyJet’s DNA and partnering with SpaceX to bring Starlink’s high-speed internet connectivity onboard for the first time will not only further enhance the experience we provide millions of customers, but means we are offering more of the options both business and leisure travellers want when they choose who they fly with.”

Which airlines use Starlink?

easyJet is far from alone in embracing Starlink.

A growing number of airlines have either rolled out the service or are in the process of installing it across their fleets.

Among the most high-profile are Qatar Airways, United Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, airBaltic, and Air France.

Several other major carriers have also announced plans to introduce Starlink in the coming years as airlines look to differentiate themselves through faster and more reliable onboard connectivity.

Why airlines are increasingly investing in better WiFi

The introduction of Starlink reflects a broader shift across global aviation, where passengers increasingly expect the same level of connectivity in the air that they receive on the ground.

Gwynne Shotwell, president and chief operating officer of SpaceX, said: “We’re proud to bring Starlink onboard easyJet and transform the way their customers stay connected throughout their travels.

“Fast, reliable connectivity from take-off to landing means people can work, stream or stay in touch without interruption.”

Is easyJet WiFi free?

easyJet has yet to reveal how its onboard internet service will be priced, or whether complimentary access will be offered.

Across the airline industry, approaches vary widely. Some carriers provide free WiFi to all passengers, while others charge based on flight duration, speed or usage levels.

Starlink is also changing airline expectations about what passengers should pay. With other in-flight WiFi services, airlines have established tiered pricing packages for internet access, ranging from an hour to the duration of the flight. 

Of the airlines currently flying Starlink, most provide access either completely free or free after passengers sign up for a no-cost loyalty account.