Lufthansa to offer free Starlink internet on flights, linking up with Elon Musk's SpaceX

Lufthansa Group passengers can soon expect a significant upgrade in their in-flight internet experience. The German airline announced it will equip its aircraft with Starlink, the satellite internet service from Elon Musk's SpaceX, promising faster speeds and improved streaming capabilities.

The first aircraft to feature the new technology will be an Airbus A320neo from Lufthansa's medium-haul fleet, scheduled for its inaugural flight with the enhanced Wi-Fi service on August 19. Lufthansa positions itself as one of the first global airlines to offer Starlink connectivity to its passengers.

SpaceX's Starlink service utilizes a network of over 9,000 satellites to provide internet access. While some airlines have already committed to Starlink, Air Baltic is noted as a European pioneer in adopting the service.

For passengers, internet access will remain complimentary for those holding status within Lufthansa Group's loyalty programs or for individuals who create a Travel ID account. The airline has not yet disclosed the total investment in this technological rollout. To minimize disruptions, the Starlink equipment will be installed during routine aircraft maintenance. Lufthansa aims to have all approximately 850 aircraft within the group equipped with this technology by 2029. Following the main Lufthansa airline, its subsidiaries Swiss, Austrian Airlines, and Brussels Airlines will gradually receive the Starlink upgrade.

“

By 2029, all around 850 aircraft in the group will be equipped with this technology.