Starlink Aviation Takes First Flight With airBaltic

Do you want better internet during a long flight? You could soon enjoy that feature with airBaltic and Starlink Aviation. 

On January 10, 2023, the European airline announced it would equip its Airbus A220-300 fleet with SpaceX’s satellite internet connectivity.

Martin Gauss, the CEO of airBaltic, said his passengers “will have internet similar to or better than what they experience at home.

Why does airBaltic want to provide in-flight internet?

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Gauss understands that the internet is now part of everyone’s lives. Thus, he wants to ensure that passengers stay connected while flying airBaltic.

He said the airline has the “most modern aircraft type available on the market.” Consequently, he wanted “to implement the most modern available inflight solution on this fleet.” 

Gauss saw Starlink Aviation as the best choice. Also, Starlink Vice President of Sales Jonathan Hofeller elaborated on the benefits of the in-flight internet connection.

“Customers will walk on the plane, and the internet will simply work,” Hofeller said. Both companies are coordinating to achieve the required STC approval.

Once they complete the supplemental type certification, airBaltic installation will begin this year. 

How does Starlink Aviation work?

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Starlink uses satellites to provide fast internet in areas that conventional connectivity cannot reach. It started as a home internet service but has expanded to the skies.

Starlink Aviation offers a simple installation kit for aircraft. It includes an Aero Terminal, two wireless access points, a power supply, and harnesses.

More importantly, Elon Musk’s company designed the Starlink Aviation Kit with convenience in mind. Airlines could quickly install the satellite internet during routine maintenance checks.

As a result, they could easily improve customer service for their passengers with 350 Mbps internet connectivity.

Starlink Aviation maintains a low latency of 20 ms so that passengers can perform activities unavailable on commercial flights.

For example, you could engage in video calls with clients while on the plane. Consequently, you could confirm your arrival while discussing important business updates.

Alternatively, you could play fast-paced online games like League of Legends, Valorant, or Genshin Impact to pass the time.

Conclusion

Starlink Aviation will become available on commercial flights with airBaltic. Soon, we might see the service expand to other airlines.

It must compete because it is not the only one trying to provide in-flight internet access. For example, Delta Airlines plans to offer free Wi-Fi on its plane. 

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