Entire Fleet Conversion To Be Done By 2027

Alaska Airlines is embarking on what it calls a transformational upgrade to the inflight connectivity experience with its decision to convert its fleet to the Starlink service so passengers can enjoy its Wi-Fi’s high-speed and low-latency connectivity for live gaming, real-time messaging and high-quality streaming on multiple devices.

Alaska is slated to begin rolling out its new Wi-Fi beginning in 2026 and says its entire fleet including regional, narrowbody and widebody aircraft will be connected by 2027. With this conversion, Alaska will join its sister carrier Hawaiian Airlines with Starlink-equipped aircraft.

Upon completion of Alaska’s installations, Alaska and Hawaiian will become the first major carriers offering Starlink. In addition, Alaska will be delivering Starlink Wi-Fi on more departures from its largest hub in Seattle than any other carrier.

Ben Minicucci, Chief Executive Officer and President of Alaska Air Group said, "With Starlink already live on Hawaiian Airlines and installations starting this winter across Alaska's fleet, we're proud that we'll offer the fastest, most reliable inflight internet in the skies – with gate-to-gate connectivity on nearly every aircraft across both airlines.”

Chad Gibbs, Vice President of Starlink Operations at SpaceX said, "We're thrilled to provide reliable high-speed internet on Alaska Airlines' flights. From gate to gate, Alaska's passengers will now experience the world's best inflight connectivity."

Starlink service provides global coverage with its more than 8,000 Low-Earth-Orbit (LEO) satellite constellation, enabling Alaska to become the first U.S. airline operating long-haul flights from Seattle to offer consistent, uninterrupted service that Alaska said is a major pain point for many international travelers who take the northerly routes to Europe or Asia.

FMI:  www.alaskaair.com/