Emirates Airlines in Talks with SpaceX to Upgrade In-Flight Internet Service
Emirates Airlines is reportedly in discussions with Elon Musk’s SpaceX to enhance the airline’s internet service for passengers, as reported by Bloomberg. The Dubai-based airline, known for its luxurious service and extensive international fleet, is exploring the possibility of utilizing Starlink internet on its widebody jets.
While no final agreement has been reached yet, Emirates currently operates approximately 250 widebody planes with over 300 more on order. The potential partnership with SpaceX could involve offering free Wi-Fi to all passengers or exclusively to loyalty and premium flyers.
If Emirates does decide to collaborate with Starlink, it would mark a significant milestone for the internet service provider. However, there are obstacles to overcome, as Starlink is not currently certified for Emirates’ Airbus A380 aircraft and is not operational over China and Russia—key routes for the airline. Nevertheless, Starlink is compatible with Boeing 777s, which make up a significant portion of Emirates’ fleet, and approval for the newer Airbus A350 is anticipated soon.
Discussions are also underway regarding pricing, with Starlink reportedly charging airlines per seat regardless of usage. Potential cost reductions could be negotiated if Emirates commits to long-term agreements or larger orders.
Presently, Emirates passengers typically pay an additional fee for Wi-Fi access. Should a deal be struck with SpaceX, regulatory changes in the UAE would be necessary, as Starlink is not yet authorized for aviation use in the region.
SpaceX has refrained from commenting on the matter, while Emirates has stated its commitment to providing top-notch in-flight services. The airline may still opt for an alternative provider such as Viasat, according to insiders.
Elon Musk’s recent visit to the Middle East, accompanied by other tech leaders and President Donald Trump, included an announcement that Starlink had obtained approval for use on airplanes and boats in Saudi Arabia.
In a similar vein, Qatar Airways has already implemented Starlink on its Boeing 777 planes, while Saudi Arabia’s Riyadh Air intends to utilize Viasat for its operations.
As negotiations between Emirates Airlines and SpaceX progress, the potential partnership holds promise for revolutionizing the in-flight internet experience for passengers, paving the way for enhanced connectivity and convenience in the skies.