DOHA, OCT 23: Qatar Airways has elevated the aviation industry standard by introducing the world’s first Starlink-equipped Boeing 777, revolutionizing in-flight connectivity.
On October 22, 2024, passengers aboard the Doha-to-London flight experienced seamless internet access at 35,000 feet, marking a monumental achievement in air travel.
This groundbreaking initiative positions Qatar Airways as the largest and pioneering carrier in the MENA region to adopt Starlink’s ultra-high-speed, low-latency internet service fleet-wide. Engineered by SpaceX, Starlink leverages a constellation of satellites in low Earth orbit, ensuring reliable connectivity over oceans and remote areas. Passengers now enjoy download speeds up to 350Mbps, enabling activities like video calls, streaming, and gaming during their flights.
“This milestone underscores our commitment to redefining the in-flight experience,” said Qatar Airways Group CEO Badr Mohammed Al-Meer. The airline aims to equip 12 Boeing 777-300s with Starlink by year’s end, with plans for full fleet integration by 2025, a year ahead of schedule for Airbus A350s.
The introduction of Starlink marks several firsts for Qatar Airways, including the largest and first Starlink-equipped widebody 777 in the MENA region. Unlike previous paid Wi-Fi services, Starlink is complimentary for all passengers, replacing older systems and ensuring seamless connectivity from gate to gate.
During the inaugural flight, CEO Al-Meer demonstrated Starlink’s capabilities with a live video call to SpaceX’s Elon Musk, who praised the service’s quality and future potential. Passengers, including frequent flyers, have lauded Qatar Airways’ initiative, highlighting the service’s ease of use and reliability.
As Qatar Airways continues its fleet-wide Starlink rollout, it joins a select group of airlines worldwide offering advanced in-flight connectivity, further cementing its status as a leader in aviation innovation.
