Dubai: Emirates has announced that it will roll out Starlink Wi-Fi across its entire in-service fleet, beginning installations on Boeing 777 aircraft in November 2025 and completing the full upgrade by mid-2027.
The complimentary, high-speed service will deliver ground-level internet quality at cruising altitude, further strengthening the airline’s reputation for pioneering in-flight connectivity.
With Starlink, Emirates passengers will be able to stream videos, make calls, game, work online, browse social media, and enjoy real-time digital services on both seatback screens and their personal devices. The system is designed to provide seamless, high-capacity connectivity across all cabin classes.
The rollout will cover all 232 aircraft in Emirates’ active fleet over the next two years. The first aircraft equipped with Starlink, the Boeing 777-300ER aircraft A6-EPF, is currently showcased at the Dubai Airshow, where visitors can test the high-speed network on the ground.
A6-EPF will operate the first Emirates commercial flight with Starlink immediately after the Dubai Airshow, initiating a rapid, fleet-wide installation schedule. The airline will upgrade approximately 14 aircraft each month, with A380 installations starting in February 2026. Each Boeing 777 will feature two Starlink antennae, while each A380 will carry an industry-first three antennae, ensuring the highest levels of performance, bandwidth, and global coverage.
Emirates will also introduce Live TV streaming via Starlink, first available on personal devices and then via seatback screens starting late December 2025. Starlink Wi-Fi will be free for all passengers across all cabins on Starlink-equipped aircraft, with simple, one-click access requiring no payment or Emirates Skywards login.
Sir Tim Clark, President of Emirates Airline, said that, “Partnering with Starlink is another defining moment in our continuous commitment to ensuring our customers ‘fly better.” We’re introducing the world’s fastest Wi-Fi, elevating what passengers can expect from in-flight connectivity, like seamless productivity, real-time communication with loved ones, and uninterrupted connection to their digital lives. But that’s just one piece of the transformation happening across our fleet.
The President noted that, “Starlink is being installed in tandem with the most ambitious cabin refurbishment program in aviation, including brand new Premium Economy cabins, an enhanced Business Class, refreshed First Class, expanded and upgraded entertainment system technologies, and now, industry-leading connectivity.”
“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,” Clark added.
Chad Gibbs, VP of Starlink Business Operations, SpaceX, stated that, “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.”
The Starlink rollout adds to Emirates’ already extensive in-flight offering, which includes more than 6,500 entertainment channels, the A380 Onboard Lounge, and First-Class Shower Spa.
The upgrade also reflects the scale of Emirates’ nearly 220-aircraft retrofit program. So far, 76 fully refurbished aircraft have returned to service with new Premium Economy seating, redesigned Business Class layouts, refreshed First Class suites, and significantly improved cabin finishes.
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