AIRLINES | TECHNOLOGY | PASSENGER EXPERIENCE
October 26, 2026
British low-cost airline easyJet has announced plans to introduce high-speed in-flight Wi-Fi through SpaceX's Starlink satellite network, marking a major change to the onboard experience it offers passengers.
The airline said installation will begin in the first half of 2027 across its Airbus A320, A320neo and A321neo fleet. The rollout is expected to be completed by early 2028, bringing satellite connectivity to millions of travellers flying with the carrier.
Passengers Will Be Able to Browse, Stream and Play Games
According to easyJet, the Starlink service is intended to allow passengers to browse the internet, stream content and play online games using their own devices while in the air.
Connectivity could also make it easier for travellers to check flight information, access destination details and stay in touch during their journeys. The airline has also highlighted the potential for customers to access its onboard menu from their seats.
Starlink uses a network of low-Earth-orbit satellites to deliver broadband internet. Its adoption by airlines reflects growing demand for faster connectivity, particularly among passengers who want to remain online throughout a flight.
Which easyJet Aircraft Will Receive Starlink?
The airline's announced rollout covers its Airbus A320, A320neo and A321neo aircraft. Installation is scheduled to start in the first half of 2027, with the programme expected to reach completion by early 2028.
easyJet has not yet provided a detailed aircraft-by-aircraft installation schedule. Passengers should therefore not assume that every flight will offer Wi-Fi as soon as the first aircraft are equipped.
The company has also not announced whether passengers will have to pay for access or whether different connectivity packages will be offered. Further details about availability and pricing are expected as the rollout approaches.
A Shift for Europe's Low-Cost Airlines
The announcement is significant because low-cost airlines have traditionally been cautious about adding onboard services that could increase costs. Installing satellite connectivity requires investment in aircraft equipment and ongoing service arrangements, while airlines must decide how to make the service commercially viable.
easyJet had previously discussed the economics of in-flight connectivity, but its new agreement with Starlink signals that the airline is moving ahead with plans to offer passengers internet access.
The carrier's decision also comes as competition over onboard connectivity grows. Airlines are increasingly treating internet access as a way to improve the passenger experience, alongside seating options, onboard food and digital travel services.
What the Announcement Means for Travellers
For passengers, the introduction of Starlink could make longer European journeys more convenient and provide new options for entertainment and staying connected. Business travellers may also benefit from being able to access online services during flights, depending on service availability and performance.
However, the announcement is a rollout plan rather than an immediate service launch. Passengers travelling with easyJet before the installation programme begins should not expect Starlink Wi-Fi to be available on their flights.
More details, including pricing, aircraft availability and the timing of individual installations, have yet to be announced.
easyJet's Starlink agreement highlights how satellite technology is becoming an increasingly important part of airline service strategies. The coming rollout will show how the low-cost carrier integrates high-speed internet while maintaining its focus on affordable air travel.
Sources: easyJet Media Centre; FlightGlobal; Reuters.
Official announcement: easyJet announces Starlink in-flight connectivity
