Emirates to Offer Free, Ultra-Fast Starlink WiFi on All Flights by 2027
In a landmark move set to revolutionize in-flight connectivity, Emirates has announced a partnership with SpaceX to equip its entire fleet with free, high-speed Starlink internet. This ambitious initiative will provide passengers with seamless, “ground-quality” browsing, streaming, and calling at 35,000 feet, completely free of charge.
A Phased Rollout Across the Fleet
The airline has outlined a comprehensive plan to retrofit its entire in-service fleet of approximately 232 aircraft. The installation process is scheduled to begin in November 2025, starting with a Boeing 777. Emirates aims to equip around 14 aircraft each month, with the goal of completing the fleet-wide rollout by mid-2027.
The iconic Airbus A380s, a cornerstone of the Emirates fleet, will begin receiving the Starlink hardware from February 2026. This significant investment underscores the airline’s commitment to delivering a premium experience across all its aircraft types.
A Symbolic Start and a Free Service for All
A particularly symbolic start to the project is the Boeing 777-300ER (registration A6-EPF), which is currently displayed at the Dubai Airshow fitted with the Starlink hardware. The first commercial flight using the new service will take off immediately after the airshow, marking the official beginning of in-service use.
For passengers, the most significant news is that the ultra-fast Starlink WiFi will be completely free. There will be no payment required and no mandatory Emirates Skywards membership to access the service. The system is designed for simplicity, offering one-click connectivity. Once logged in, travelers can effortlessly stream high-definition video, play online games, make video calls, browse social media, and work productively, whether using the seatback screen or their own devices.
A “Defining Moment” and a Multi-Billion Dollar Investment
Emirates President, Sir Tim Clark, hailed the partnership as “another defining moment” in the airline’s evolution. “The rollout of Starlink’s high-speed inflight connectivity will raise the bar on the Emirates experience and enable our passengers to stay in touch with friends and family, stream their favorite shows, and be fully productive while in the air,” he stated.
To support this massive technological upgrade, Emirates is making a multi-billion dollar investment in retrofitting its fleet. Reports indicate that each Boeing 777 will be fitted with two Starlink antennae, while each larger A380 will require three. This extensive coverage is engineered to ensure a strong and reliable signal throughout the entire cabin, eliminating dead zones.
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Transforming the Travel Experience
SpaceX also expressed enthusiasm for the partnership. Chad Gibbs, Vice President of Starlink Business Operations, commented, “With Starlink, Emirates passengers will have access to a world-class internet experience, enabling them to stream, game, and video call just as they would on the ground. We’re excited to work with Emirates to transform the travel experience.”
This move is a major strategic win for both companies. For Starlink, securing a partnership with a global premium carrier like Emirates represents a significant milestone in the aviation sector. For Emirates, offering free, ultra-fast internet is a powerful differentiator that reinforces its position as an innovator in luxury air travel. This initiative is part of a broader fleet refurbishment strategy that also includes new Premium Economy cabins and refreshed Business and First Class suites.
By making this commitment, Emirates is not only setting a new industry standard for in-flight connectivity but is also sending a clear message that a seamless digital experience is now an integral part of the modern luxury journey.
