Emirates is set to redefine inflight connectivity as it becomes the largest international airline to deploy Starlink Wi-Fi across its entire in-service fleet. The rollout begins with Boeing 777 aircraft in November 2025, with full installation across 232 aircraft—including both Boeing 777s and Airbus A380s—scheduled for completion by mid-2027. Offering complimentary, ultra-fast, ground-like internet at cruising altitude, the enhancement reinforces Emirates’ long-standing commitment to delivering world-leading inflight connectivity and elevating the passenger experience.
With Starlink onboard, customers will enjoy seamless streaming, gaming, calls, work productivity, and social media browsing throughout the flight—using both seatback screens and personal devices simultaneously. Emirates showcased its first Starlink-equipped aircraft, the Boeing 777-300ER (A6-EPF), at the Dubai Airshow, allowing visitors to experience the difference firsthand. After the event, A6-EPF will operate the airline’s first commercial flight equipped with Starlink, marking the beginning of an accelerated monthly installation pace of around 14 aircraft. Starlink installation on the A380 fleet will commence in February 2026.
To ensure exceptional capacity and coverage, Emirates will install two antennae on each Boeing 777 and an industry-first three antennae on every Airbus A380—setting a new standard in aviation connectivity. The airline will also introduce Live TV over Starlink, first on personal devices and later on seatback screens from late December 2025. Importantly, Starlink Wi-Fi will be free for all passengers, with simple one-click access and no Skywards membership required.
Sir Tim Clark, President of Emirates Airline, described the Starlink partnership as another milestone in the airline’s mission to ensure customers “fly better.” He highlighted that the introduction of the world’s fastest inflight Wi-Fi is part of Emirates’ larger fleet transformation, which includes its ambitious cabin refurbishment programme. This ongoing retrofit—one of the largest in aviation—features new Premium Economy cabins, an enhanced Business Class, refreshed First Class suites, upgraded entertainment systems, and refined cabin finishes across all classes. Sir Tim emphasized Emirates’ commitment to consistency, ensuring passengers enjoy the airline’s best products across the entire fleet, rather than on select routes or aircraft.
Chad Gibbs, VP of Starlink Business Operations at SpaceX, added that customers will enjoy the same digital freedom in the air as they do on the ground, with the ability to stream, game, and video call effortlessly. He expressed excitement about transforming the Emirates travel experience while supporting rapid and high-quality Starlink installations.
Starlink joins an extensive list of Emirates’ onboard innovations, including its award-winning ice entertainment system with more than 6,500 channels, the iconic A380 Onboard Lounge, and the exclusive First Class Shower Spa. The rollout also aligns with Emirates’ nearly 220-aircraft retrofit programme, with 76 refurbished aircraft already re-entering service with refreshed cabin designs and upgraded features.
For more information about the Emirates retrofit programme, visit the airline’s media centre.