Passengers on British Airways flights will soon enjoy complimentary, high-speed Starlink Wi-Fi as part of the airline’s £7 billion transformation programme.
The airline has announced that it will begin rolling out free, high-speed in-flight Wi-Fi powered by Starlink from 2026, giving passengers reliable and fast internet access from gate to gate.
The new service will allow travellers in all cabins to stream video, work and stay connected on multiple devices throughout their journey, even when flying over oceans or remote regions.
Starlink, operated by SpaceX, provides broadband connectivity via a network of low-Earth orbit satellites that orbit much closer to the planet than traditional communications satellites. This enables a stronger, faster and more stable internet connection.
The introduction of Starlink Wi-Fi marks another major step in British Airways’ ongoing £7 billion transformation plan, first announced in 2024. The programme has already driven significant improvements across the customer experience, from punctuality and onboard service to upgraded lounges and new aircraft deliveries.
British Airways Chairman and Chief Executive Sean Doyle said the Starlink partnership would be a major milestone for the airline. He said the airline was continuing to focus on transforming the customer experience and that the launch of Starlink across both long-haul and short-haul aircraft would elevate the passenger experience by providing seamless connectivity from gate to gate. Doyle added that the move would particularly help to differentiate the airline on its short-haul network.
He said the new Wi-Fi, powered by Starlink, would enable customers to enjoy fast, low-latency internet from the moment they board to the moment they land, even over oceans and remote regions, describing it as “Wi-Fi that feels like home, even at 38,000 feet.”
Under Doyle’s leadership, British Airways has completed more than 1,000 transformation and investment initiatives so far. These include the launch of new global lounge concepts in Miami and Dubai, the refurbishment of 15 lounges worldwide including in Seattle, Singapore, Glasgow and Gatwick, and the delivery of 36 new aircraft since 2023, with more to follow in 2026.
The airline has also introduced AI-driven technology to improve punctuality and predictive maintenance, alongside enhanced customer support during disruption, including digital refreshment and hotel vouchers for passengers at Heathrow.
British Airways’ transformation will continue into 2026 with the introduction of its new First suite, featuring the airline’s widest and longest seat and bed, a 32-inch 4K television and adjustable lighting. The carrier will also launch a new mobile app and take delivery of additional aircraft, including Boeing 787-10s.
The addition of Starlink connectivity is set to further enhance the airline’s reputation for innovation and customer service, ensuring passengers can stay connected, entertained and productive wherever their journey takes them.
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