Elon Musk’s SpaceX is on the verge of finalizing a groundbreaking deal with Saudi Arabia’s national airline, Saudia, to equip its entire fleet with Starlink satellite internet service. This partnership, as reported by Bloomberg, would encompass over 140 aircraft, marking a significant step for Starlink’s expansion into one of the Middle East’s largest economies.
Negotiations with Saudia are in their advanced stages, with SpaceX also exploring potential collaborations with other airlines in the Gulf region. Talks are underway with Bahrain’s Gulf Air and Flydubai, a low-cost carrier owned by the Dubai government. However, regulatory approval is still pending for Starlink’s use in the United Arab Emirates, which could impact any potential agreement with Flydubai.
Starlink’s aviation service operates on a subscription basis, with hardware costs ranging from $300,000 to $500,000 per aircraft, in addition to a monthly fee per seat. In May, Elon Musk confirmed that Saudi Arabia had granted approval for Starlink’s use in both aviation and maritime settings.
Countries like Bahrain, Jordan, and Qatar have already authorized the use of Starlink services. Qatar Airways was notably the first major airline in the Middle East to partner with Starlink, initially introducing the service on its Boeing 777 jets, with plans to expand to its 787 Dreamliner and Airbus A350 fleets.
SpaceX has been actively expanding its in-flight connectivity offerings, with Starlink recently becoming available as an aftermarket OEM upgrade for Embraer’s premium business jets. This move further solidifies Starlink’s presence in the fast-growing market for high-speed satellite internet access in aviation.
If the agreement with Saudia is finalized, it would represent one of Starlink’s most significant partnerships with a commercial airline to date, positioning the service as a key player in the skies of the Middle East.
In addition to this exciting development, SpaceX has also unveiled a new grid fin design for its next-generation Super Heavy booster, showcasing a larger and stronger iteration that enhances control authority while enabling steeper descents.
Furthermore, Starlink has introduced a new “Standby Mode” plan for paused users in the U.S., Canada, and beyond. This plan offers unlimited low-speed data for emergency use at a nominal fee, catering to users who require basic connectivity during downtime.
In a groundbreaking move, Ukraine’s largest mobile operator, Kyivstar, successfully tested SpaceX’s Starlink Direct to Cell technology, paving the way for a potential launch in the fourth quarter. This test demonstrated the capability of exchanging messages via Starlink satellites using standard 4G-enabled smartphones, showcasing the technology’s versatility and potential impact on global connectivity.
As SpaceX continues to innovate and expand its services, the future looks promising for Starlink’s role in revolutionizing internet access, both in aviation and beyond. the perspective of a travel blogger who has just returned from a trip to the beautiful city of Barcelona, Spain.
Barcelona is a vibrant and bustling city located in the northeastern region of Spain. Known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and delicious cuisine, this city is a must-visit destination for any traveler. I recently had the opportunity to explore Barcelona and I must say, it exceeded all of my expectations.
One of the first things that struck me about Barcelona was the incredible architecture that is scattered throughout the city. From the iconic Sagrada Familia designed by Antoni Gaudi to the intricate Gothic Quarter, every corner I turned revealed a new architectural marvel. The city’s unique blend of old and new architecture creates a visually stunning landscape that is truly one of a kind.
In addition to its architecture, Barcelona is also known for its rich history. As I wandered through the narrow streets of the Gothic Quarter, I couldn’t help but feel like I had been transported back in time. The ancient buildings and cobblestone streets whispered stories of the city’s past, making me feel as though I was a part of something much bigger than myself.
Of course, no trip to Barcelona would be complete without indulging in the local cuisine. From tapas to paella, the food in Barcelona is nothing short of amazing. I made sure to sample as many dishes as possible, and each one was more delicious than the last. The fresh seafood, flavorful meats, and mouth-watering desserts left me wanting more and more.
Aside from its architecture, history, and cuisine, Barcelona also offers a vibrant nightlife scene. The city comes alive after dark, with bustling bars, clubs, and music venues that cater to every taste. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed evening sipping cocktails by the beach or a night of dancing until dawn, Barcelona has something for everyone.
Overall, my trip to Barcelona was an unforgettable experience. The city’s beauty, history, and culture left me in awe, and I can’t wait to return and explore more of what this amazing city has to offer. If you’re looking for a destination that will capture your heart and soul, look no further than Barcelona, Spain.