Qatar Airways has partnered with Starlink, SpaceX’s mega-constellation of internet satellites. This collaboration will bring blazing-fast, low-latency Wi-Fi to passengers on select Qatar Airways flights, marking a significant leap forward in the airline’s commitment to innovation and passenger experience.

The initial phase of this rollout will see Starlink’s high-speed internet beamed onto three of Qatar Airways’ Boeing 777-300 aircraft by the end of 2024. Passengers on these planes can expect to experience internet unlike anything offered in the skies before. With speeds reaching up to 500 megabits per second for the entire aircraft, this translates to a seamless and speedy online experience.

The announcement took place on the second day of the Aircraft Interior Expo at Hamburg – Germany, in the presence of Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, and Mr. Mike Nicolls, Vice President of Starlink Engineering at SpaceX.

This exciting collaboration with Starlink is a testament to our customer-first mindset and commitment to elevating our passengers’ experience to unprecedented heights, as we continue furthering our innovative offerings to meet and exceed passengers’ expectations throughout their journey with Qatar Airways.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer

Gone are the days of buffering videos or lagging during online games. Qatar Airways’ new “one-click-access” system promises a smooth and reliable connection, allowing passengers to stream videos, play games, and browse the web with ease. This enhanced connectivity is sure to elevate the in-flight experience for passengers accustomed to staying connected on the ground.

This partnership positions Qatar Airways as a pioneer in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. By becoming the first airline in the region to offer Starlink’s advanced inflight Wi-Fi, Qatar Airways underscores its commitment to staying at the forefront of the aviation industry.

Looking beyond the initial rollout, Qatar Airways has ambitious plans. The airline intends to progressively equip its entire modern fleet with SpaceX’s innovative technology within the next two years. This move signifies a significant shift in passenger expectations for in-flight connectivity, paving the way for a truly connected travel experience across the globe.

Featured image by Alvin Man