British Airways has launched its inaugural flight featuring significantly faster Wi-Fi for passengers, marking a notable upgrade in its onboard connectivity. The airline became the first UK carrier to implement Elon Musk’s Starlink internet system, with the maiden journey taking place on a Boeing 787-8 from London Heathrow to Houston, USA, on Thursday.
Previously, British Airways’ internet service was limited to its slower and less reliable .air system. The airline plans to integrate Starlink across its entire fleet of over 300 aircraft, excluding BA CityFlyer planes, within the next two years as part of a "£7 billion transformation" initiative.
Starlink, owned by tech billionaire Mr Musk’s SpaceX aerospace company, utilises thousands of satellites orbiting Earth. British Airways stated that this advanced system will enable passengers to access "fast, reliable internet for streaming, working and staying connected" during their flights.
The airline added that the technology will also make it easier for flight and cabin crews to communicate with colleagues on the ground.
Several overseas-based carriers already offer Starlink, such as Air France, Emirates and Qatar Airways.
Sean Doyle, British Airways’ chief executive, said: “We’re excited to be the first UK airline to bring this level of connectivity to our customers.
“We know that staying connected matters to people, whether they’re travelling for work or heading off on holiday, and Starlink will give our customers fast, reliable wi-fi that transforms the onboard experience.
“This milestone is part of a wider investment in elevating every aspect of our customer journey as we continue to modernise our airline.”
Starlink is being made available free of charge in all cabins.
Options through the .air service range from text-based messaging which is free to loyalty club members, to packages enabling passengers to “stream music, video content and films”, which cost between £4.99 and £21.99 depending on the duration of the flight.
In January, a row erupted between Mr Musk and Ryanair boss Michael O’Leary over whether Starlink could be used on the airline’s flights.
After Mr O’Leary said this was not feasible, Mr Musk called Mr O’Leary an “idiot” and “chimp”, and mused on X whether he should buy the airline.
Mr O’Leary claimed the “PR spat” had driven a 2% to 3% increase in sales.
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