“Emirates Airlines has announced that passengers will soon enjoy free Starlink internet during flights, with the airline planning to complete the installation and make the service available across its fleet within two years.”
“Emirates to Offer Complimentary Starlink Wi-Fi on Flights, Full Implementation Expected Within Two Years”
On Monday, Emirates Airlines announced plans to equip its entire active fleet with Starlink Wi-Fi, starting with Boeing 777 planes in November 2025 and finishing the full rollout by mid-2027.
“All Emirates passengers will enjoy complimentary Starlink Wi-Fi on equipped aircraft in every cabin, with easy one-click access—no payment or Skywards membership required.”
“Emirates intends to equip its entire active fleet of 232 aircraft with Starlink over the next two years. The airline has already fitted its first plane, the Boeing 777-300ER A6-EPF, showcased at the Dubai Airshow, allowing attendees to test the high-speed internet while on the ground.”
Emirates is set to operate its first commercial passenger flight equipped with Starlink Wi-Fi immediately after the Dubai Airshow, marking the beginning of a major upgrade to its inflight connectivity offerings. As part of this rollout, the airline plans to install the Starlink system on roughly 14 aircraft each month, ensuring a steady and systematic upgrade across its fleet. The installation program will initially focus on other aircraft types before extending to the Airbus A380 fleet, with work on these flagship planes scheduled to begin in February 2026.
The Starlink service will provide passengers with ultra-fast internet that matches the quality of ground-based broadband, enabling seamless streaming, browsing, and communications while at cruising altitude. By offering this complimentary connectivity across all cabins, Emirates reinforces its dedication to delivering a world-class travel experience and maintaining its position as a leader in inflight technology. This move reflects the airline’s long-standing strategy of investing in passenger comfort and convenience, ensuring travelers remain connected at every stage of their journey. With Starlink onboard, Emirates is setting a new benchmark for high-speed, reliable inflight internet, making long-haul flights more productive and enjoyable than ever before.
With the introduction of Starlink connectivity, Emirates passengers will be able to enjoy a fully connected inflight experience unlike anything previously offered. Travelers on board will have the ability to stream movies and TV shows, play online games, make voice or video calls, handle work-related tasks, and browse social media, all without interruption. This high-speed internet access will be available on both seatback entertainment screens and passengers’ personal devices, allowing everyone on board to stay connected in whichever way they prefer. Whether passengers want to catch up on their favorite shows, communicate with colleagues or family, or simply scroll through their social feeds, the system is designed to support multiple activities simultaneously, ensuring smooth performance across the aircraft.
By providing seamless and reliable connectivity across all cabin classes, Emirates is setting a new standard for inflight digital experiences. This initiative ensures that every traveler, from economy to first class, can remain productive, entertained, and engaged during their journey. The integration of Starlink technology reflects Emirates’ ongoing commitment to innovation and passenger satisfaction, enabling travelers to enjoy the convenience of high-speed internet while cruising at 35,000 feet. It represents a major step forward in creating a modern, connected, and enjoyable travel environment for all guests.
Several Middle Eastern carriers, including airlines from Saudi Arabia and Qatar, have begun outfitting their fleets with SpaceX’s Starlink satellite internet, bringing high-speed connectivity to passengers in the region. Qatar Airways recently announced a significant milestone in its Starlink deployment, revealing that more than 100 of its widebody aircraft are now equipped with the fastest inflight Wi-Fi currently available. This achievement highlights the airline’s ongoing commitment to enhancing the passenger experience through cutting-edge technology.
Sir Tim Clark, president of Emirates, emphasized that the partnership with Starlink represents a key step in the airline’s broader mission to ensure travelers “fly better.” According to Clark, the introduction of ultra-fast Wi-Fi enables passengers to stay fully connected, whether they are working, streaming, or communicating with family and friends, while also complementing the broader transformation of Emirates’ fleet.
The Starlink installation is part of a larger, ambitious cabin upgrade program that includes the rollout of new Premium Economy cabins, enhanced Business Class seating, refreshed First Class suites, and upgraded in-flight entertainment systems. By integrating industry-leading connectivity alongside these cabin enhancements, Emirates is setting new benchmarks in passenger comfort and convenience, ensuring travelers can enjoy a seamless, modern, and highly connected travel experience from departure to arrival.
He emphasized that Emirates’ dedication to providing a truly exceptional travel experience is evident in every aspect of its flights. From the most advanced inflight connectivity to state-of-the-art cabins, the airline is setting new standards in comfort, convenience, and technology. Passengers can expect an unparalleled level of service that goes hand-in-hand with extensive entertainment options, including a wide array of on-demand movies, TV shows, and digital content designed to keep travelers engaged throughout their journey. The airline’s talented and highly trained Cabin Crew are at the heart of this experience, delivering attentive and personalized service that enhances the enjoyment of every flight.
These elements collectively showcase Emirates’ significant investments in innovation and quality, reflecting a long-term commitment to redefining what modern air travel should offer. The integration of cutting-edge technology, premium cabin design, and exceptional customer service is not just about providing luxury—it’s about creating a seamless, memorable journey that meets the diverse needs of every passenger. By continually upgrading its fleet, cabins, entertainment systems, and connectivity, Emirates demonstrates a clear vision of elevating the overall travel experience, ensuring that every flight embodies comfort, efficiency, and world-class standards that set the airline apart in the global aviation industry.
Chad Gibbs, vice-president of Starlink Business Operations at SpaceX, highlighted the transformative impact that Starlink connectivity will have on Emirates flights. He explained that with Starlink installed, passengers will enjoy a truly connected experience in the air, comparable to what they are accustomed to on the ground. Travelers will be able to stream their favorite shows and movies, play online games without interruption, and conduct high-quality video calls seamlessly, all from the comfort of their seats. This level of connectivity allows passengers to stay productive, entertained, and in touch with friends, family, or colleagues throughout their journey.
Gibbs also emphasized that the collaboration between SpaceX and Emirates is not just about providing fast internet—it is about enhancing the overall travel experience. He expressed enthusiasm for the rapid rollout of Starlink across the airline’s fleet while stressing that the installation process is being managed carefully to ensure that the airline’s high standards of service and passenger comfort are maintained. According to Gibbs, this partnership represents a significant step forward in redefining inflight connectivity, providing Emirates customers with a modern, seamless digital experience that complements the airline’s premium cabins, entertainment options, and world-class service, setting a new benchmark in air travel for passengers worldwide.
