Doha, Qatar – Qatar Airways has unveiled the first Boeing 777 with Starlink, revolutionizing in-flight internet connectivity with high-speed satellite service.
Qatar Airways has marked a new milestone as it has launched the world’s first Boeing 777 aircraft with Starlink satellite internet.
Passengers can now enjoy ultra-high-speed internet on flights. This makes Qatar Airways the first airline in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region to introduce Starlink service. The historic first flight took off from Doha and landed in London, offering seamless connectivity from gate to gate.
The Starlink service is available at no extra cost to all passengers. It allowing them to stream, browse, and connect without interruptions.
This connectivity, provided by the Starlink satellite network operated by SpaceX, promises ultra-high-speed, low-latency internet.
Passengers will have full internet access from the moment they board until they disembark, a major convenience upgrade over typical in-flight Wi-Fi services.
Qatar Airways’ Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, celebrated the launch, saying, “We are thrilled to launch our first Starlink-equipped flight, proving once again why Qatar Airways is at the forefront of the aviation industry.
This milestone, paired with our commitment to rapidly roll-out Starlink across our entire modern fleet, demonstrates our relentless pursuit of offering passengers an in-flight experience that transcends the constraints of traditional air travel.”
Expanded Fleet Plans for 2024 and 2025
By the end of 2024, Qatar Airways plans to have Starlink connectivity on 12 Boeing 777-300 aircraft. This surpasses its initial goal of just three aircraft.
In 2025, the airline aims to install Starlink across its entire Boeing 777 fleet, a year earlier than originally planned. After completing the Boeing 777 upgrades, Qatar Airways will equip its Airbus A350 aircraft with Starlink in the summer of 2025.
This comprehensive expansion reflects the airline’s commitment to innovative technology and passenger comfort. Al-Meer continued, “By providing Starlink reliable, seamless internet on board, we are connecting people to things they love the most even at 35,000 feet, making every journey with us a memorable one.”
Also Read: Starlink Surpasses 4 Million Users Globally
Raising the Bar for In-Flight Connectivity in MENA
Qatar Airways’ collaboration with SpaceX is a first for the MENA region, making the airline a leader in passenger technology.
The Starlink satellite system, which has the world’s largest satellite constellation, offers consistent coverage even at cruising altitude.
Starlink-equipped aircraft will initially serve selected routes. This will allow Qatar Airways to test and gradually introduce the service across its global network.
By increasing connectivity options, Qatar Airways aims to offer all passengers the best possible travel experience. The airline’s incorporation of advanced satellite internet services will set new standards for in-flight connectivity across the industry.