The ‘world’s best airline’ is upgrading its entire fleet with ultra-fast Starlink Wi-Fi starting this month – making it the world’s largest international airline to offer the service across its network.
From 23 November, passengers will be able to stream, video call, game, work and browse social media in real time – free of charge – at 40,000ft with simple one-click access.
The first of 232 Boeing 777 aircraft equipped with Starlink internet is scheduled to enter commercial service later this month, with plans to accelerate installations across the carrier’s fleet at 14 aircraft per month.
Emirates, named the ‘World’s Best International Airline’ in 2024 and 2025 in Forbes’ Travel Guide, will also debut the world’s first Starlink-enabled A380 in early 2026.
By mid-2027, all 232 of its in-service Boeing 777 and Airbus A380 aircraft will have Starlink connectivity, giving passengers access that requires no payment or special Skywards membership.
The airline will begin by installing two antennae on each Boeing 777 aircraft, followed by an industry-first three antennae on each Airbus A380.
This will ensure a better customer experience across every cabin, offering the highest levels of connectivity, capacity, and coverage.
Live TV will also be available over Starlink – initially on personal devices and then on seatback screens from December, 2025.
Emirates is upgrading its entire fleet with ultra-fast Starlink Wi-Fi starting this month – making it the world’s largest international airline to offer the service across its network
From 23 November, passengers will be able to stream, video call, game, work and browse social media in real time – free of charge – at 40,000ft with simple one-click access (stock image)
Emirates has already equipped its first aircraft with Starlink on A6-EPF, the Boeing 777-300ER, which is currently on display at the Dubai Airshow – giving visitors the opportunity to experience its high-speed connectivity while on the ground.
Although Qatar Airways was the first airline to launch a Starlink-equipped Boeing 777 commercial flight in October 2024, it is currently only available across its 777 fleet.
The upcoming Emirates launch, however, represents a substantial expansion of Starlink availability on an international carrier’s wide-body fleet.
Sir Tim Clark, president of Emirates Airline said: ‘We’re introducing the world’s fastest Wi-Fi, elevating what passengers can expect from inflight connectivity, like seamless productivity, real-time communication with loved ones, and uninterrupted connection to their digital lives.
He added: ‘But that’s just one piece of the transformation happening across our fleet.’
‘The most advanced connectivity, exceptional cabins, extensive entertainment, and world-class service from our talented Cabin Crew – all of these elements reflect our substantial investment and commitment to raising the bar on what air travel should be.’
Chad Gibbs, VP of Starlink Business Operations, SpaceX, said: ‘With Starlink onboard your Emirates flight, you’ll be able to stream, game, and have seamless video calls, just as you can do on the ground.
‘We’re excited to transform Emirates’ travel experience and support the rapid installation of Starlink while maintaining focus on delivering overall quality of service.’
By mid-2027, all 232 of its in-service Boeing 777 and Airbus A380 aircraft will have Starlink connectivity, giving passengers access that requires no payment or special Skywards membership
Meanwhile, British Airways is set to trial a new system that could change how we watch movies and shows on long flights.
The airline is launching a trial called ‘Bring Your Own Device’, which will allow passengers to stream all the usual in-flight entertainment from their seat-back screens straight to their phones, tablets, or laptops.
This is welcome news for passengers who’ve ever struggled with malfunctioning seat-back screens, especially on long-haul flights where travellers are left with limited options to pass the time.
The trial is set to start later this month on selected long-haul flights out of London Heathrow, specifically on BA’s A380s, Boeing 787-9s, and the older 777-200s.
