Virgin Atlantic Makes Groundbreaking Deal with Starlink for In-Flight Wi-Fi
In a groundbreaking move, Virgin Atlantic has announced a major upgrade to its in-flight connectivity by partnering with SpaceX’s Starlink for high-speed, satellite-powered Wi-Fi across its entire fleet. This makes Virgin Atlantic the first U.K. airline to strike a deal with Starlink, setting a new standard for in-flight Wi-Fi.
Starting in the third quarter of 2026, Virgin Atlantic will begin installing Starlink’s satellite Wi-Fi on its Boeing 787s, Airbus A350s, and A330neos, with the rollout expected to be completed by the end of 2027. What’s even more exciting is that the service will be offered completely free of charge for Flying Club members, making it a game-changer for passengers who rely on staying connected while in the air.
Siobhan Fitzpatrick, Chief Experience Officer at Virgin Atlantic, expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership, stating that Starlink will deliver “free, streaming quality, unlimited, fleet-wide Wi-Fi” with speeds fast enough for streaming, gaming, video calls, and online shopping. This move is aimed at enhancing the overall onboard experience for passengers and ensuring that they can stay connected seamlessly from gate to gate using multiple devices.
The airline describes the in-flight Wi-Fi experience as “a home away from home,” providing passengers with the best connectivity in the skies. This partnership with Starlink aligns with Virgin Atlantic’s commitment to offering top-notch services and amenities to its passengers, further elevating the overall travel experience.
Starlink’s expansion into aviation has been gaining momentum, with Virgin Atlantic joining a growing list of airline partners that includes Qatar Airways, United Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, and JSX. Emirates is also reportedly in talks with SpaceX for future in-flight connectivity, highlighting the increasing demand for high-speed, reliable Wi-Fi services onboard.
This announcement comes on the heels of Virgin Atlantic’s completion of a $17 billion fleet modernization last year, which saw the addition of seven A330-900neo aircraft to its fleet. The airline’s continuous efforts to enhance its services and amenities reflect its commitment to providing passengers with a seamless and enjoyable travel experience.
Overall, Virgin Atlantic’s partnership with Starlink marks a significant milestone in the aviation industry, setting a new standard for in-flight connectivity and raising the bar for other airlines to follow suit. Passengers can look forward to enjoying fast and reliable Wi-Fi services onboard Virgin Atlantic flights, making their travel experience even more enjoyable and convenient.