EasyJet to launch Starlink Wi-Fi on A320 fleet from 2027
EasyJet will equip over 300 Airbus A320-family jets with Starlink satellite internet starting in 2027, aiming to attract business travelers and generate new revenue as it transitions to a premium low-cost model under an impending takeover.
EasyJet announced plans to install Starlink Wi-Fi across its Airbus A320-family fleet from 2027. The rollout, covering over 300 aircraft, will begin in the first half of 2027 and is expected to be completed by early 2028.
The UK-based carrier, one of Europe's largest low-cost airlines, confirmed the partnership with SpaceX's Starlink network on October 26, 2026. The initiative is part of a broader strategic shift under a pending take-private transaction with Apollo Global Management, which plans to introduce more premium and business-focused offerings on core routes. The airline previously ruled out such a deal on economic grounds but has now reversed its position, suggesting renegotiated costs or pressure from its prospective new owner.
Scope and fleet details
The installation will cover the airline's entire fleet of Airbus A320, A320neo, and A321neo aircraft. These jets serve approximately 100 million passengers annually. The older Airbus A319 fleet, which is scheduled for retirement by 2029, is excluded from the satellite internet upgrade.
Features and passenger experience
Once activated, the Starlink service will enable passengers to browse the web, stream entertainment, play online games, and stay in touch during flights. It will also provide access to the easyJet app and website onboard, allowing for flight updates, destination information, and direct ordering from the inflight menu from a passenger's seat. The airline stated this investment maintains its focus on making travel easy and affordable while meeting rising customer expectations.
Business case and competitive context
The move supports easyJet's stated focus on premiumization and capturing more business travel revenue. It aligns with a new loyalty program launching in the 2027 financial year, building on a customer base where 71% of bookings come from returning passengers. The competitive landscape for in-flight connectivity on short-haul routes in Europe is evolving rapidly.
| Airline | Connectivity Status | Key Detail |
|---|---|---|
| EasyJet | Starlink rollout from 2027 | Over 300 A320-family aircraft |
| Wizz Air | Starlink deal agreed for 2027 | Fleet-wide installation planned |
| Vueling | Viasat service operational | Over 1 million complimentary sessions by April 2026 |
| British Airways | Free Starlink planned | Service announced for its flights |
| Ryanair | No current plans | CEO cited installation and fuel costs as prohibitive |
As of January 2026, only 21% of Europe's short- and medium-haul jets offered any form of internet access. Ryanair's chief executive, Michael O'Leary, has publicly criticized the Starlink system, arguing that the weight and drag from the antenna would increase fuel costs, making it unattractive for low-cost carriers. In contrast, other global carriers like United Airlines already offer Starlink on nearly half their daily U.S. flights, and SpaceX has secured aviation contracts with groups including IAG, the owner of British Airways, and Emirates.
EasyJet has not specified whether the Starlink access will be complimentary or require payment, nor has it detailed which aircraft will be fitted first. The airline expects the service to be fully operational across its relevant fleet by early 2028.
