airBaltic Launches Free Starlink Wi-Fi Service
In a move that takes inflight connectivity into the stratosphere, Latvia’s airBaltic is rolling out free, high-speed Wi-Fi across its entire fleet, courtesy of SpaceX’s Starlink. Just over two years after making this bold announcement in early 2023, the first of their jets now has its Wi-Fi engines running—and it’s the first commercial plane from a European airline to feature Starlink.
airBaltic Begins Free Starlink Wi-Fi Rollout
airBaltic is on a mission to outfit all its Airbus A220-300 planes with low-latency Starlink technology. The best part? They’re offering it for free. This means you can tap into Wi-Fi from door to door, with zero login rigmarole—just connect and click “browse”.
Starlink has been delivering high-speed internet in about 120 countries. It made its foray into commercial aviation in 2022. Unlike traditional satellites, Starlink plays the field closer to Earth at 550 kilometers up. This means faster speeds and less delay—think teleportation instead of snail mail.
The system promises speeds up to 350 Mbps with a quick-draw latency of 20 ms. That’s fast enough for VPNs and all those binge-worthy activities requiring high data—you won’t miss a beat up there.
Initially, installations were slated for late 2023, but like all things bureaucratic, delays happened. Getting an aircraft Starlink-ready involves jumping through certification hoops, namely the STC approval. However, once the papers are in order, the actual installation is a cinch.
The first Airbus A220-300 from airBaltic to sport Starlink Wi-Fi is now jetting through the skies. This specific plane, with the swanky registration YL-CSL, marks a milestone as the first European commercial aircraft to get Starlink on board. Pretty nifty, right?
As for the rest of the flock, it’s a guessing game how long Wi-Fi installation will take. With airBaltic often leasing its airplanes for wet lease agreements, it could stretch beyond a year—far from the fast-fingered Wi-Fi we’re talking about here.
airBaltic CEO Martin Gauss on Starlink:
“We are excited to lead the way in Europe by offering high-speed, unlimited, and complimentary inflight connectivity. This first test brings great insights and moves us a step closer to enhancing our passenger service throughout the airBaltic network.”
“Thanks to our partners at SpaceX’s Starlink for their steadfast support during this transformative phase. Their vision meshes perfectly with our values. With this cutting-edge Starlink solution onboard our modern fleet, we’re charting new territory for airBaltic.”
What an Exciting Development for airBaltic
airBaltic is one of those airlines quietly defying expectations. With an army of 50 Airbus A220s and orders for an additional 40, they’re one of the giants of A220 operations and were the first to grab them.
Flying an A220 is like gliding through a spacious, high-tech cloud—plenty of space, a thoughtful 2-3 seating layout, and lavatories that don’t dare shrink. It’s already a standout within Europe, and now, with free lightning-fast Wi-Fi, you’d be hard-pressed to find this level of connectivity anywhere else on the continent.
The economics behind airlines embracing Starlink Wi-Fi are intriguing. Apart from offering stellar connectivity, those jumping on the Starlink bandwagon, like airBaltic, seem determined to do so without charging passengers.
- Air France
- Air New Zealand
- Hawaiian Airlines
- Qatar Airways
- SAS
- United
- WestJet
All these carriers have dived into the Starlink pool, with some already taking the plunge into installation. It feels as if the industry at large is hurtling toward a future where free inflight Wi-Fi becomes the norm, with airBaltic leading the way.
Bottom Line
airBaltic is soaring to new heights, courtesy of free Wi-Fi powered by SpaceX’s Starlink. Its first Airbus A220 is now successfully providing this service, with more aircraft gearing up to follow suit. This initiative sets them apart as the pioneering European airline embracing Starlink technology.
Fancy a trip that combines connectivity with relaxation? Once you’ve enjoyed airBaltic’s Wi-Fi, consider planning a getaway at the Val Seny ski resort. Whether up in the air or on solid ground, your next adventure awaits!
What are your thoughts on airBaltic introducing free Wi-Fi?