SpaceX and European low-cost airline easyJet have announced plans to introduce Starlink satellite internet on board their aircraft. Passengers are promised fast and stable connectivity that will allow them to use the network during flights without significant interruptions. The announcement continues a series of agreements making Starlink the standard for in-flight connectivity for air carriers on various continents.
How Starlink Works Onboard
Starlink uses a low Earth orbit satellite constellation to transmit data at high speed and with low latency. Unlike traditional in-flight systems, which can depend on ground stations or high-orbit satellites, this architecture enables a faster connection. For airline passengers, this means the ability to work online, stream video, and stay connected throughout the entire journey.
easyJet and the Airbus Fleet
For easyJet, the integration of Starlink fits into its fleet renewal strategy: the company previously placed a firm order for 157 Airbus A320neo and A321neo aircraft. This means that satellite internet will be available on the modern fleet of narrow-body jets that form the backbone of the carrier's route network in Europe.
Global Expansion: Vietjet, EL AL, and SAS
The agreement with easyJet is not an isolated case. It was previously reported that Starlink will appear on 120 Vietjet aircraft, a project building on a May 2026 agreement, with the equipment of the Vietnamese airline's fleet intended to provide connectivity "from gate to gate." Israel's EL AL has similar plans, with the rollout of Starlink scheduled to begin in phases in 2027, designed to operate without noticeable speed limitations, including over ocean routes. In Europe, Scandinavian Airlines has already tested the scheme, having started phased deployment across its entire fleet in late 2025 and promising network access from multiple devices simultaneously.
What This Means for Passengers
The combination of these agreements shows that in-flight internet is shifting from a premium option into a basic mass-market service. For budget and legacy carrier passengers, this means reliable connectivity throughout the entire flight—from departure to landing, including over oceans where ground infrastructure is unavailable.
