AUSTIN/TX – The introduction of Starlink high-speed internet, developed by SpaceX, marks a significant advancement for the aviation industry. An increasing number of airlines worldwide, including those in Asia, are adopting satellite-based technology, which provides reliable and free internet onboard their aircraft.
Asian Airlines Lead the Way with Starlink
A particular focus lies on Asian airlines that have already paved the way for Starlink adoption. Qatar Airways, a leading player in the region, has introduced Starlink in its Boeing 777 fleet and plans to retrofit all 777 aircraft by the end of 2025. Additionally, installations on Airbus A350 aircraft will begin in the summer of 2025.
Japanese airlines are also embracing Starlink. Zipair, a subsidiary of Japan Airlines, has implemented the service across its fleet. The modern Airbus wide-body aircraft of Hawaiian Airlines – now part of the Alaska Airlines Group – will utilize Starlink on flights from Seattle to Japan and South Korea.
Air New Zealand, another trailblazer, plans to implement Starlink to enhance the passenger experience on long-haul flights.
United Airlines: A Pioneer in the U.S.
United Airlines, one of the largest airlines in the world, has announced plans to fully equip its regional fleet with Starlink by the end of 2025. The first tests began in February 2025 with an Embraer 175 regional jet. Members of United’s loyalty program can use the high-speed internet for free, including for streaming services, while non-members currently pay for access.
With this move, United follows the examples of Delta Air Lines and JetBlue Airways, both of which already offer free internet via providers such as Viasat and Gogo.
European Airlines Embrace Starlink
In Europe, Starlink is also gaining popularity. AirBaltic, the national airline of Latvia, and Air France have both chosen Starlink for their fleets. Both airlines plan to offer passengers free Wi-Fi, enabling fast browsing and streaming.
The Advantages of Starlink
Compared to traditional satellite Wi-Fi services like Viasat, Starlink delivers significantly higher speed and reliability. This is due to the use of satellites in low Earth orbit, which provide lower latency and more stable connections. The technology has proven especially effective in remote regions and on long-haul flights.
Since 2022, Starlink has increasingly entered the aviation market. JSX, a semi-private U.S. airline, was the first to equip its entire fleet with the system. Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines followed suit, introducing Starlink in their aircraft.
Looking Ahead
With the continuous rollout of Starlink across global aircraft fleets, the travel experience for passengers is being elevated to a new level. Particularly in Asia, a key market for aviation, airlines like Qatar Airways, Zipair, and Air New Zealand are setting benchmarks for the future.
The adoption of Starlink demonstrates that reliable, high-speed internet in aviation is no longer a luxury but is rapidly becoming the standard. Passengers can look forward to a new era of travel – always connected, no matter where they are. (zai)