Virgin Atlantic plans to introduce free in-flight connectivity from Starlink.
The UK airline will begin installing streaming-quality Wi-Fi on its Boeing 787s, Airbus A350s, and A330neos from Q3 2026, with the installation expected to be completed by the end of 2027.
The service will be available to passengers in all cabins, who will enjoy streaming-quality, gate-to-gate connectivity.
It will be free for Flying Club members.
The airline aims to create a ‘home away from home’ Wi-Fi experience, allowing passengers to connect seamlessly, from the moment they board the aircraft, enjoying the same quality in the air as they do on the ground.
They will be able to do all this by using Starlink, the world’s first and largest satellite constellation in low Earth orbit (LEO), which will provide Virgin’s passengers high-speed, low-latency internet for free.
This network uses many smaller, lower-orbiting satellites compared to traditional systems. This translates to faster speeds and wider coverage.
During the flight, passengers can download and stream their favourite TV shows, game with friends on the ground, browse internet shopping, catch up on work, watch live sports games and connect with friends and family.
Passengers will be able to use multiple devices simultaneously, including smartphones, laptops and tablets.
Siobhan Fitzpatrick, Chief Experience Officer, Virgin Atlantic:
“We never stop innovating for our guests and today, in a first for any UK airline, we’ll soon have free, streaming quality, unlimited, fleet-wide Wi-Fi. Together with Starlink, we are delighted to provide our guests with the best connectivity in the skies, further elevating our onboard experience.
“The new service allows our guests to create a home away from home experience, allowing customers to connect seamlessly, from the moment they board the aircraft, enjoying the same quality in the air as they do on the ground.”
Virgin Atlantic currently has a fleet of over 40 aircraft, all wide-body, comprising:
- 12 Airbus A350
- 15 Airbus A330
- 17 Boeing 787
More airlines choosing Starlink
Virgin Atlantic and other airlines are switching to Starlink as it offers stronger streaming and faster connectivity due to its low-Earth orbit satellites, which can provide internet access in remote regions and over the ocean.
In addition to Virgin Atlantic, SpaceX has announced Starlink inflight Wi-Fi deals with:
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Virgin Atlantic (VS)
