Emirates to offer free starlink on all flights, boosting SpaceX revenue potential

Emirates will provide free Starlink satellite internet on all its Boeing 777 and Airbus A380 aircraft by mid-2027, a move that could generate a major new revenue stream for SpaceX and strengthen Starlink’s position in the global aviation market.

Emirates has announced a major fleet upgrade to provide free Starlink satellite internet on all its Boeing 777 and Airbus A380 aircraft by mid-2027. The plan covers 232 planes and will start with the first fully connected flight at the end of November 2025.

The initiative involves installing two Starlink antennas on each Boeing 777 and three on each A380 to ensure seamless connectivity throughout the flight. Passengers will access high-speed internet on personal devices without any additional cost or a loyalty program account. In-flight services will include streaming movies and TV shows, online gaming, video calls, emails, and e-commerce transactions. By the end of December 2025, Emirates plans to extend Starlink access to seat-back infotainment screens.

For SpaceX, the deal represents a significant commercial milestone. By equipping a major international airline fleet with Starlink, SpaceX secures a recurring revenue stream from subscription-based connectivity, validates Starlink’s high-performance capabilities at scale, and strengthens its position in the competitive satellite internet market. The rollout, planned at 14 aircraft per month, also demonstrates the commercial viability of integrating Starlink into global aviation, potentially opening doors to partnerships with other airlines and transport networks.

Analysts note that widespread adoption of Starlink in aviation could accelerate SpaceX’s path to profitability for its satellite internet division, providing both stable revenue and a high-profile showcase for the system’s capabilities in premium, high-demand markets.