Emirates expands Starlink WiFi across Europe, Asia and Americas in major rollout
Free connectivity available across all cabin classes on equipped aircraft
DUBAI – Emirates is expanding its Starlink-powered onboard internet service across more international routes, bringing free high-speed connectivity to passengers on a wider scale, the airline announced on social media on Friday.
The rollout is being extended across key regions including the Middle East, Asia Pacific, Europe, Africa and the Americas, reflecting a rapid global expansion of its digital services.
As of May 14, thirty-three aircraft in the Emirates fleet are now equipped with the satellite-based WiFi system, with availability offered free of charge to passengers across all cabin classes on supported flights. The development marks a significant step in the carrier’s push to enhance connectivity at 40,000 feet.
Connectivity upgrade
The latest phase builds on Emirates’ launch of the world’s first Airbus A380 fitted with Starlink WiFi, which recently returned to Dubai after installation and certification work in Newquay, UK.
The upgraded system uses three Starlink antennas on the A380 and is capable of delivering more than 2 gigabits per second of bandwidth across the cabin.
The Emirates A380 continues to raise the bar for what flying should be. And with @Starlink now onboard our first A380, we're delivering unbelievable connectivity throughout your journey. ???? pic.twitter.com/pqmDCXaJXR
— Emirates (@emirates) May 15, 2026
Emirates said this represents a major leap compared to earlier onboard systems, which provided less than 1 Mbps of total aircraft bandwidth. Passengers can use the service for streaming, gaming, browsing and work tasks, with support for multiple devices connected simultaneously during flights.
Fleet expansion
Emirates has already fitted 25 Boeing 777-300ER aircraft with Starlink technology, with installations continuing across the fleet. The airline is targeting a total of 232 Starlink-equipped aircraft as part of its long-term expansion plan.
The first Boeing 777 commercial flight featuring the service is scheduled for November 23, marking another milestone in the rollout.
So far, more than 650,000 passengers have experienced Starlink-enabled flights.
The upgrade programme also aligns with broader refurbishment work across 93 aircraft, introducing Premium Economy cabins, refreshed Business Class interiors and updated inflight entertainment systems, with future enhancements expected to include live TV streaming via Starlink.