easyJet is to introduce high-speed inflight Wi-Fi for the first time, partnering with SpaceX’s Starlink satellite network to bring internet connectivity to millions of passengers travelling with the airline.
The rollout is scheduled to begin in the first half of 2027, with the installation of Starlink connectivity across easyJet’s Airbus A320, A320neo and A321neo fleet expected to be completed by early 2028.
The move will mark a significant change to the onboard experience for the UK-based airline, which carries around 100 million passengers each year. Customers will be able to connect their own devices to the internet, with the ability to browse websites, stream entertainment, play online games and stay in touch with friends, family or colleagues while in the air.
Unlike traditional inflight connectivity systems, Starlink uses a constellation of low-Earth-orbit satellites to provide high-speed internet access. The technology is designed to deliver reliable connectivity throughout a flight, allowing passengers to enjoy online services in a similar way to when they are on the ground.
For easyJet, the introduction of Wi-Fi represents a further investment in the passenger experience, giving both leisure and business travellers access to services that have become an increasingly familiar part of everyday life.
More than just inflight entertainment
Alongside streaming and browsing, the new connectivity could provide practical benefits for passengers travelling to and from destinations across easyJet’s European network and beyond.
Customers will be able to access the easyJet app and website while onboard, helping them check flight information and look up useful details about their destination, including local weather, transport options and tourism information.
The technology also creates the potential for passengers to order items from the inflight menu directly from their seats, offering another way to make the onboard experience more convenient.
The airline says the investment is intended to provide greater choice for customers while maintaining its focus on making travel easy and affordable.
Kenton Jarvis, easyJet’s chief executive, said: “In an increasingly digital world, staying connected matters more than ever to many of our customers, whether that’s holidaymakers looking to unwind with inflight entertainment, or our business customers keeping up to speed with what’s happening on the ground.
“Innovation is in easyJet’s DNA and partnering with SpaceX to bring Starlink’s high-speed internet connectivity onboard for the first time will not only further enhance the experience we provide millions of customers, but means we are offering more of the options both business and leisure travellers want when they choose who they fly with.
“Giving customers the opportunity to get online in the air will mean even greater choice and convenience when you fly with easyJet. Ultimately, it’s yet another way we’re making travel easy.”
Gwynne Shotwell, president and chief operating officer of SpaceX, said the partnership would transform how easyJet passengers stay connected during their journeys.
“We’re proud to bring Starlink onboard easyJet and transform the way their customers stay connected throughout their travels. Fast, reliable connectivity from take-off to landing means people can work, stream, or stay in touch without interruption.”
A new feature for easyJet passengers
The introduction of Starlink will bring easyJet into a growing market for inflight connectivity, as airlines look to improve the passenger experience through faster internet access and more digital services.
For passengers, the ability to remain connected throughout a flight could be particularly useful on longer journeys, whether catching up on work, watching online entertainment or planning the first stages of a holiday before landing.
The rollout will take place progressively from 2027, with early 2028 the target for completion across the specified Airbus fleet. easyJet has not yet announced a detailed aircraft-by-aircraft installation schedule.
The airline has also not specified whether access will be free for all passengers or whether different connectivity packages will be offered. Further details on pricing and the customer offering are expected to clarify how travellers will be able to use the service once installations begin.
For an airline built around affordable fares and straightforward travel, the challenge will be to make the new service a useful addition without compromising the value proposition that has helped establish easyJet as one of Europe’s largest low-cost carriers.