Emirates is set to launch what it calls the world’s largest Starlink-enabled international wide-body fleet, equipping 232 Boeing 777 and A380 aircraft with ultra-fast, low-latency satellite internet.
The rollout begins in November 2025, starting with its Boeing 777 fleet, and will continue at a pace of around 14 aircraft per month. Emirates expects to complete the installation by mid-2027, with A380s entering the programme in February 2026.
Each Boeing 777 will be fitted with two Starlink antennae, while the A380s will receive three, an industry-first, to provide high capacity and strong coverage across all cabin classes.
When fully deployed, the service will let passengers stream, game, make video calls, work, and browse social media — all on their own devices or via seatback screens — with “ground-quality” internet connectivity even at cruising altitude. Live TV over Starlink is set to go live for personal devices first, followed by seatback systems from late December 2025.
This upgrade builds on Emirates’ consistent inflight connectivity efforts. In 2023, the airline announced that all passengers — across Economy, Business, Premium Economy, and First — could access some form of free Wi-Fi, especially when signed up to its Skywards loyalty programme. Previously, free access had been more limited, but Emirates has steadily increased its connectivity investment. Now, the newest Starlink service will be free for all passengers on equipped aircraft; access requires a single click, with no payment or Skywards loyalty membership needed.
Emirates’ president, Sir Tim Clark, said partnering with Starlink underscores the airline’s commitment to “industry-leading” inflight connectivity, offering customers seamless, real-time communication and productivity at altitude. “Starlink is being installed in tandem with the most ambitious cabin refurbishment programme in aviation including brand new Premium Economy cabins, an enhanced Business Class, refreshed First Class, expanded and upgraded entertainment system technologies, and now, industry-leading connectivity,” he added.
The newest boost to an inflight experience already defined by more than 6,500 entertainment channels, the signature A380 onboard lounge, and its First Class shower spa. The upgrade comes as the airline advances its wide-ranging retrofit programme, aimed at overhauling almost 220 aircraft. So far, 76 jets have rejoined the fleet with a new Premium Economy cabin, a redesigned Business Class, refreshed First Class suites, and elevated finishes that give the interiors a sleeker, more refined feel.
Chad Gibbs, Vice President of Starlink Business Operations at SpaceX, said the collaboration will “transform Emirates’ travel experience and support the rapid installation of Starlink while maintaining focus on delivering overall quality of service.”
Starlink’s growing reach in commercial aviation now includes major carriers such as British Airways, American Airlines, United Airlines, Virgin Atlantic, Scandinavian Airlines, Qatar Airways, and Air France.
The developments highlight a wider industry trend, with airlines increasingly adopting Starlink to deliver fast, reliable inflight internet, bringing onboard connectivity closer to the quality passengers expect on the ground.
