Emirates Partners with SpaceX to Offer Superfast Starlink Wi-Fi Across the Entire Fleet, Enhancing Connectivity and Service Growth on All Boeing and Airbus Jets Starting November 2025

Published on November 17, 2025

Emirates today revealed that it is teaming with SpaceX to bring Starlink’s ultra-fast satellite connectivity to its entire fleet of Boeing 777 and Airbus A380 aircraft. In this way, superfast, free Wi-Fi will be available to passengers in all cabins at the same time, enabling them to stay connected and enhance their on-board experience with continuous access to the internet while flying. The rollout of Starlink will start this month, with the first commercial flight set to take place on November 23, 2025, on a Boeing 777. The retrofit program should be completed on all 232 wide-body aircraft in the Emirates fleet by mid-2027.

This forms part of a $5 billion investment to retrofit Emirates’ Boeing and Airbus jets with the next-generation connectivity system. Equipped with Starlink’s satellite-based internet technology, Emirates promises passengers the world’s fastest in-flight Wi-Fi for a better digital on-board experience at cruising altitude. It is expected that the decision to provide free-of-charge Wi-Fi will change completely the landscape of inflight connectivity, rendering Emirates the leader in the field of inflight customer experience.

Revolutionizing In-Flight Connectivity: Seamless Experience for Passengers

The Starlink service is expected to deliver ground-quality internet to passengers at cruising altitude, enabling them to stream content, make calls, work, play games, and browse social media without interruption. This service will be available on both seatback screens and personal devices simultaneously, offering convenience and flexibility to passengers who want to stay connected throughout their flight. Emirates aims to provide seamless productivity for travelers, as well as the ability to stay in touch with loved ones in real time, enhancing the overall in-flight experience.

The Wi-Fi service will be accessible with one-click access, available free of charge to all passengers, regardless of their Skywards membership status. This move aligns with Emirates’ vision of offering premium products consistently across its fleet, ensuring uniformity in service quality across all routes and aircraft types. As Emirates continues to innovate and deliver premium services, the introduction of Starlink will set a new standard for in-flight connectivity.

A Step Toward Future-Proofing In-Flight Connectivity

The Starlink installation represents Emirates’ commitment to enhancing the digital experience for its passengers, allowing them to stay connected in the air as easily as they would on the ground. Tim Clark, President of Emirates, emphasized that the introduction of Starlink is a “defining moment” in the airline’s ongoing efforts to provide next-generation in-flight services. With Starlink, Emirates passengers can now enjoy seamless digital experiences during flights, including streaming movies, gaming, and real-time communications, giving them more flexibility and options for work and entertainment on the go.

The implementation of Starlink is part of a broader trend in the aviation industry where airlines are increasingly recognizing the value of digital services and connectivity as integral components of the overall passenger experience. Emirates’ ability to deliver this service at scale across its extensive Boeing 777 and Airbus A380 fleets shows its leadership in integrating cutting-edge technology into its fleet.

Collaborating with SpaceX: A Major Step in Airline Innovation

The decision to implement Starlink is another bold step in Emirates’ long-term strategy of delivering industry-leading services. As the airline works to retrofit 14 aircraft per month with Starlink equipment, it is also set to debut the world’s first Starlink-equipped A380 aircraft by February 2026. The A380, known for its luxury offerings like the onboard lounge and first-class shower, will benefit from Starlink’s high-speed connectivity, ensuring that the experience is enhanced across all cabins, whether for leisure or business travelers.

Emirates’ partnership with SpaceX will also help boost the airline’s competitive edge, providing a clear differentiator in the increasingly competitive global aviation market. As airlines around the world seek to enhance in-flight Wi-Fi, Emirates’ decision to partner with SpaceX represents a strong commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction.

The Wider Impact of Starlink on the Airline Industry

The introduction of Starlink service is expected to have a significant industry-wide impact. While Qatar Airways has already rolled out Starlink on its Boeing 777s and is retrofitting its Airbus A350 fleet, Emirates’ larger fleet and its ability to provide free Wi-Fi will set it apart from other carriers, offering a premium, consistent service that is hard to match. The widespread use of Starlink could help shift in-flight internet from a costly, often unreliable service to a seamless, high-quality experience that is available on all long-haul flights, regardless of aircraft type.

With Starlink already available in parts of the Middle East, including Qatar, Oman, and Bahrain, the global availability of the service marks a significant shift toward uninterrupted global connectivity for air travelers. As Starlink continues to expand its services across the world, it could lead to widespread adoption of high-speed internet on aircraft, a move that would significantly enhance the overall passenger experience and change the way people view air travel.

Emirates’ Continued Investment in Customer Experience

Emirates’ commitment to providing superior customer experiences is further evidenced by its continuous investment in innovative products and services. Beyond the introduction of Starlink Wi-Fi, Emirates has long been known for its premium offerings, including its A380 onboard lounge, first-class shower, and luxury cabin amenities. By offering world-class connectivity alongside these luxurious offerings, Emirates is setting a new benchmark for premium air travel.

This continued focus on enhancing the passenger experience ensures that Emirates remains at the forefront of global aviation, maintaining its position as the world’s largest international airline and a leader in innovative air travel.

Transforming Air Travel with Starlink

Emirates, installing Starlink on its entire fleet, is revolutionizing inflight connectivity and setting the path toward what the future of digital air travel will look like. Its commitment to providing high-speed, free Wi-Fi across its Boeing 777 and Airbus A380 fleets reflects the airline’s ongoing efforts to increase the passenger experience and stay competitive in the global aviation market. As SpaceX’s Starlink continues to grow in reach, Emirates makes sure its passengers remain connected-be they flying for business, leisure, or just to be in touch with loved ones. The future of connectivity in the skies is bright, indeed, and Emirates leads the way.