Emirates has announced a major upgrade to its inflight experience with the rollout of Starlink high-speed satellite Wi-Fi across its entire in-service fleet, marking one of the largest connectivity upgrades ever undertaken by an airline. The deployment begins with its Boeing 777 aircraft in November 2025, with full completion targeted by mid-2027, bringing ground-like internet speeds to passengers at cruising altitude at no extra cost.

The service will allow customers to stream videos, join video calls, browse social media, game, and work throughout their flight with seamless connectivity across all cabin classes. Starlink will be available simultaneously on seatback screens and personal devices, enabling an entirely new level of onboard digital access. All customers will enjoy unlimited free Wi-Fi on Starlink-equipped aircraft with one-click access, without any payment or Skywards membership requirement.

Emirates’ rollout covers 232 aircraft, including the Airbus A380 and Boeing 777 fleets. The airline has already installed Starlink on its first aircraft—a Boeing 777-300ER registered as A6-EPF—which is being unveiled at the Dubai Airshow. This aircraft will operate the airline’s first commercial Starlink-equipped passenger flight immediately after reentering service, marking the start of an accelerated installation programme that will see approximately 14 aircraft outfitted every month. Installation on the A380 fleet begins in February 2026, with each 777 receiving two antennae and each A380 receiving three—an industry first—to maximize connectivity capacity, coverage and performance for the large double-deck aircraft. Emirates will also introduce Live TV over Starlink, first on personal devices and later on seatback screens from late December 2025.

Sir Tim Clark, President of Emirates Airline, described the partnership as a major leap forward in the airline’s ongoing commitment to elevate inflight connectivity. He said the addition of Starlink brings “the world’s fastest Wi-Fi” to Emirates passengers, enabling true real-time communication, uninterrupted productivity, and always-on connection to digital services, mirroring ground-level experiences. Clark added that Starlink forms a key component of the airline’s broader fleet transformation, which includes an extensive cabin refurbishment programme featuring new Premium Economy cabins, redesigned Business Class, refreshed First Class suites, a modernised entertainment system and upgraded finishes. He emphasized Emirates’ goal of delivering consistent premium experiences across its entire fleet rather than limiting top-tier upgrades to selected routes or aircraft types.

SpaceX also expressed enthusiasm about the partnership. Chad Gibbs, VP of Starlink Business Operations, highlighted that passengers will be able to stream, game and join seamless video calls in flight with the same reliability they enjoy on the ground. He noted that Starlink and Emirates are working closely to support the rapid installation process while ensuring service quality at scale.

Starlink becomes the latest addition to Emirates’ extensive onboard offering, which includes more than 6,500 entertainment channels, the A380’s signature Onboard Lounge, and the First Class Shower Spa. The connectivity upgrade also aligns with the airline’s long-term retrofit programme, which is transforming nearly 220 aircraft. As of now, 76 refurbished aircraft have reentered service with new Premium Economy cabins, updated Business Class, refreshed First Class, and enhanced interior finishes.