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๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช Germany /Technology

Lufthansa launches first Starlink-equipped flight, plans fleet-wide satellite internet

From Die Zeit · () German

Translated from German, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Official statement New plan
  • Lufthansa is equipping its first aircraft with Starlink satellite internet this week, with plans to outfit its entire fleet.
  • Passengers will be able to use high-speed internet for streaming and work on their own devices.
  • Lufthansa aims to be among the first airlines globally to offer Starlink, with free access for certain customer groups.

Lufthansa is set to launch its first aircraft equipped with Starlink satellite internet this Wednesday, marking a significant upgrade in onboard connectivity. Passengers aboard this initial flight will have access to high-speed internet, enabling them to stream content, work on their devices, and stay connected during their journey. The first upgraded aircraft will be a mid-range Airbus A320neo from the core airline.

The airline group has ambitious plans to equip its entire fleet with Starlink's satellite internet service, a venture backed by SpaceX, the company founded by US billionaire Elon Musk. This move positions Lufthansa among the pioneering airlines globally to offer such advanced connectivity.

According to company statements, internet access will be provided free of charge to all status customers and passengers who create a user account for the "Travel ID" service. This initiative is part of a broader trend among airlines looking to enhance the passenger experience through improved onboard Wi-Fi capabilities, with numerous carriers already announcing their intentions to adopt Starlink.

DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Die Zeit in German. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.