Emirates Begins Fleetwide Rollout of Starlink Connectivity
Emirates will begin deploying Starlink Wi-Fi across its entire in-service fleet, starting with Boeing 777 aircraft in November 2025 and completing the rollout by mid-2027. The complimentary, high-speed service will provide ground-level connectivity at cruising altitude, supporting the airline’s ongoing focus on enhancing in-flight digital access.
Starlink connectivity will enable customers to stream content, play games, make calls, work, and browse social media throughout their journey, both on seatback screens and personal devices. The system will support simultaneous use across all cabin classes.
Emirates plans to install Starlink on 232 aircraft over the next two years. The first aircraft, A6-EPF, a Boeing 777-300ER, has already been equipped and is currently on display at the Dubai Airshow, where visitors can experience the service firsthand.
The first commercial flight equipped with Starlink will depart immediately after the Airshow as A6-EPF returns to service, marking the start of the fleet-wide rollout. Emirates aims to retrofit approximately 14 aircraft per month, with Airbus A380 installations scheduled to begin in February 2026.
The airline will install two antennae on each Boeing 777 and three on each Airbus A380, expanding connectivity coverage and capacity across all cabin classes. Live TV over Starlink will be introduced first on personal devices and later on seatback screens from late December 2025.
Starlink Wi-Fi will be provided at no cost for all customers across all cabins on equipped aircraft, requiring only a simple one-click login without payment or Skywards membership.
Sir Tim Clark, President Emirates Airline, said: “Partnering with Starlink supports our effort to enhance the onboard experience with improved connectivity, communication, and digital access. This forms part of a wider transformation of our fleet, which includes updated cabins, expanded Premium Economy, and upgraded entertainment technologies.”
He added: “Our approach is to deliver consistency across the fleet. We want customers to have access to the same level of experience regardless of aircraft type or route, and this is reflected in our investment in the retrofit programme.”
Chad Gibbs, VP of Starlink Business Operations at SpaceX, said: “With Starlink onboard, customers can stream, game, and join video calls much as they would on the ground. We look forward to supporting Emirates during the rollout and ensuring reliable service.”
Starlink is the latest addition to Emirates’ onboard offering, which includes over 6,500 entertainment channels, the A380 Onboard Lounge, and the First Class Shower Spa.
The rollout aligns with the airline’s retrofit programme, covering nearly 220 aircraft. So far, 76 refurbished aircraft have re-entered service with updated Premium Economy, redesigned Business Class, refreshed First Class suites, and revised interiors.
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