Emirates to launch free Starlink Wi-Fi across entire fleet
A380 fleet to gain industry-first triple antenna installation from 2026
DUBAI – Emirates is set to deploy free, ultra-high-speed Starlink Wi-Fi across its entire in-service fleet, positioning the airline to operate the world’s largest Starlink-enabled wide-body operation.
The first commercial flight equipped with the service will take off on 23rd November, immediately after the Dubai Airshow, onboard a Boeing 777-300ER.
The rollout forms part of Emirates’ broader investment in inflight experience enhancements, including an extensive retrofit programme covering nearly 220 aircraft.
Free Starlink Wi-Fi
The airline will begin installing Starlink technology on its Boeing 777 aircraft from November 2025, completing the fleet-wide upgrade by mid-2027. Emirates plans to equip all 232 aircraft currently in service, delivering what it describes as ground-quality internet at 40,000 feet. Customers travelling on Starlink-enabled flights will be able to stream content, make calls, work, browse social media, and play online games on both personal devices and seatback screens.
The first aircraft fitted with Starlink, registered A6-EPF, is already on display at the Dubai Airshow. Visitors are able to test the system’s performance onboard the Boeing 777-300ER before it enters passenger service. Emirates expects to retrofit around 14 aircraft per month as part of an accelerated installation schedule.
Who can benefit?
Starlink connectivity will be available at no cost to all passengers across all cabin classes. Access will require only a single click, with no payment or Emirates Skywards membership needed. Emirates will also offer Live TV over Starlink, initially accessible through personal devices and then through seatback screens from late December 2025.
The airline is installing two antennae on each Boeing 777 and an industry-first three antennae on each Airbus A380. The configuration is designed to maximise connectivity capacity, coverage, and stability throughout the cabin. Installation on the A380 fleet will begin in February 2026, coinciding with Emirates’ wider refurbishment programme for the double-decker aircraft.
When will upgrades begin?
Sir Tim Clark, President Emirates Airline, said the partnership reflects the company’s approach of delivering consistent product quality across its global network. He noted that Starlink installation is taking place alongside Emirates’ extensive cabin modernisation, which includes new Premium Economy cabins, upgraded Business Class, refreshed First Class suites and redesigned entertainment technologies.
He added that Emirates aims to avoid the varied inflight products seen across other airlines by ensuring passengers can expect the same level of service and technology regardless of aircraft type or route. The retrofit programme is already well underway, with 76 aircraft fully refurbished and back in operation.
Starlink, operated by SpaceX, provides high-speed, low-latency satellite internet. Chad Gibbs, VP of Starlink Business Operations, stated that passengers would be able to enjoy the same connectivity capabilities available on the ground, including streaming and video calls. The collaboration is part of Emirates’ ongoing effort to enhance onboard amenities, which also include over 6,500 entertainment channels, the A380 Onboard Lounge, and the First Class Shower Spa.
As Emirates expands its connectivity offering, the airline also continues progress on its retrofit programme, covering nearly 220 aircraft. This long-term investment introduces upgraded interiors, refreshed cabin products and improved entertainment systems as the fleet transitions through scheduled refurbishment cycles.