Emirates has announced a major upgrade to its in-flight experience, confirming that it will equip its entire fleet with SpaceX’s Starlink technology offering passengers free, high-speed Wi-Fi across all cabins. The airline revealed the development on Monday during the opening day of the Dubai Airshow, calling it a transformative step toward next-generation connectivity in the skies.
According to Emirates, the first Starlink-enabled Boeing 777 will enter service on November 23. The airline plans to install the system on its full fleet of 232 Boeing and Airbus wide-body aircraft by mid-2027, averaging installations on around 14 aircraft each month. Emirates also announced that the world’s first Starlink-equipped A380 will debut in February 2026.
Emirates president Tim Clark described the agreement as “another defining moment” for the airline, stressing that passengers will soon enjoy seamless browsing, uninterrupted communication, and real-time productivity during flights.
“We’re introducing the world’s fastest Wi-Fi, elevating what passengers can expect from in-flight connectivity,” Clark said. “Whether it’s connecting with family, streaming content, or working on the go this is the level of consistency we strive for.”
The airline is investing $5 billion to retrofit its Boeing and Airbus jets, ensuring that premium features are available across all routes rather than limited to select aircraft. Clark emphasized that Emirates aims to avoid a fragmented onboard experience, unlike some competitors that offer varying products depending on aircraft type.
The announcement comes as Emirates continues to expand its well-known onboard offerings, which include the A380 lounge and first-class shower spa. While the UAE has not yet finalized regulatory approvals for satellite operators like Starlink, the airline says the service will activate shortly after takeoff, delivering “ground-quality internet” at cruising altitude.
Starlink is already operational in several Middle Eastern countries, including Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, and Jordan. Lebanon has also approved its use earlier this year. Qatar Airways became the region’s first airline to adopt the technology in 2024.
With Starlink connectivity, Emirates passengers will be able to stream videos, make voice calls, play online games, and browse social media from both seat-back screens and personal devices all through instant, one-click access with no Skywards membership required.
The announcement follows a strong financial year for Emirates, which recently reported a 13% rise in half-year profits, reaching Dh9.9 billion ($2.7 billion). The airline expects travel demand to remain strong through the rest of the fiscal year.
