Emirates is set to introduce ultra-fast Starlink Wi-Fi on all in-service aircraft, beginning with its Boeing 777s in November 2025 and completing the full rollout by mid-2027. The upgrade will provide passengers with ground-level internet speeds at cruising altitude, reinforcing the airline’s push to remain a leader in inflight connectivity.
The technology will allow travellers to stream videos, make calls, play online games, work, and browse social media on both seatback screens and personal devices. Emirates aims to equip all 232 aircraft in its active fleet with the system, installing around 14 aircraft per month. The first aircraft fitted with Starlink—Boeing 777-300ER A6-EPF—is already on display at the Dubai Airshow and will operate the airline’s first Starlink-enabled commercial flight immediately after the event.
Installation on the Airbus A380 fleet is scheduled to begin in February 2026. Each Boeing 777 will carry two Starlink antennae, while every A380 will feature three—an industry first—designed to boost connection strength and coverage across all cabin classes. Live TV via Starlink will also be introduced, initially on personal devices and later on seatback screens starting late December 2025.
The new Wi-Fi will be free for all passengers, with simple one-click access and no Skywards membership required.
Sir Tim Clark, President of Emirates Airline, said the partnership marks “another defining moment” in the airline’s commitment to helping customers “fly better,” highlighting how the new system will support “seamless productivity, real-time communication with loved ones, and uninterrupted connection to their digital lives.” He noted that the connectivity upgrade is being rolled out alongside the airline’s extensive cabin refurbishment programme, which includes new Premium Economy cabins and redesigned Business and First Class products.
He added that Emirates prioritises consistent quality across its fleet, saying the airline wants passengers to enjoy its best products on every aircraft, not just select routes. “The most advanced connectivity, exceptional cabins, extensive entertainment, and world-class service from our talented Cabin Crew” reflect Emirates’ continued investment in raising the travel experience, he said.
Chad Gibbs, SpaceX’s VP for Starlink Business Operations, said passengers will be able to “stream, game, and have seamless video calls, just as you can do on the ground,” as the company supports the fast installation of the system across the Emirates fleet.
The rollout forms part of Emirates’ wider retrofit programme, under which 76 refurbished aircraft have already re-entered service with upgraded cabins and improved entertainment features.
