Sky-high connection: Virgin Atlantic taps Starlink in UK first
July 9, 2025
Virgin Atlantic has become the first UK airline to announce a partnership with Elon Musk’s Starlink in-flight connectivity service.
The carrier will begin installing the super-fast Wi-Fi developed by SpaceX in its Boeing 787s, Airbus A350s and A330neos by the autumn of 2026. The installation is expected to be completed by the end of 2027.
Several airlines have already opted to install Starlink connectivity, including Qatar Airways, United Airlines and Air Baltic.
The technology promises streaming-quality Wi-Fi, using the Musk operated satellite constellation – the largest using a low Earth orbit.
Starlink delivers broadband internet capable of supporting streaming, online gaming and video calls.
It will be offered free of charge for members of Virgin’s Flying Club, the airline’s loyalty programme.
First UK airline to adopt Starlink
Siobhan Fitzpatrick, chief experience officer, Virgin Atlantic, said: “We never stop innovating for our guests and today, in a first for any UK airline, we’ll soon have free, streaming quality, unlimited, fleet-wide Wi-Fi.
“Together with Starlink, we are delighted to provide our guests with the best connectivity in the skies, further elevating our onboard experience.
“The new service allows our guests to create a home away from home experience, allowing customers to connect seamlessly, from the moment they board the aircraft, enjoying the same quality in the air as they do on the ground.”
The decision to adopt Starlink is likely to be well-received by passengers, who increasingly expect high-speed, uninterrupted connectivity in the air (and on the ground, before and after takeoff).
The promise of faster internet will enhance the in-flight experience, particularly on long-haul routes where demand for streaming and real-time communication is growing.
It will be particularly welcome for those flying in parts of the world where current internet connectivity is limited, such as Virgin’s transatlantic services that route close to the North Pole.
However, the satellite network’s ties to Musk, his business empire and its political entanglements may raise concerns for some users.
The Starlink upgrade comes as Virgin announced an overhaul of its Boeing 787-9 fleet, ending speculation that the carrier may opt to shed the Dreamliners in favour of an all Airbus fleet.
The 787s will undergo a cabin refurbishment, introducing increased premium cabins from 2028, with design inspired by the A330neo.
Starting in Q3 2026, 10 A330neo aircraft will also join the fleet with larger premium cabins
Shai Weiss, CEO, Virgin Atlantic, said: “In the last four decades, we’ve evolved from a challenger to a leader and a premium, long-haul flag carrier.
“We are investing billions to fly the youngest fleet across the Atlantic; the first UK airline to have free, streaming quality, fleet-wide Wi-Fi; more premium cabins and a full retrofit of the 787 fleet. The best is yet to come.”
