Successful Test Flight

On January 8, 2025, airBaltic conducted a successful certification test flight of SpaceX’s Starlink high-speed internet system aboard its Airbus A220-300 aircraft. The flight, departing from Riga, Latvia, evaluated both the Starlink aero terminal and internet connection performance, marking a significant step toward obtaining European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) certification.

Plans for Fleet-Wide Implementation

Following the successful test, airBaltic plans to equip its entire Airbus A220-300 fleet with Starlink technology by the first quarter of 2025. This initiative aims to offer passengers free, high-speed internet access from boarding to landing, eliminating the need for logins or complicated setups.

Benefits to Passengers

The integration of Starlink’s satellite internet system will enable airBaltic passengers to engage in activities such as online gaming, using virtual private networks (VPNs), and other high-bandwidth tasks during flights. The service is designed to be intuitive, providing internet access without complicated setups or additional logins.

Industry Impact

This collaboration positions airBaltic as a leader in European aviation connectivity, setting a new standard for in-flight internet services. The partnership with SpaceX underscores a shared commitment to enhancing passenger experience and leveraging cutting-edge technology in the aviation industry.

Conclusion

airBaltic’s partnership with SpaceX to integrate Starlink technology into its fleet represents a significant advancement in in-flight connectivity. By offering passengers seamless, high-speed internet access, airBaltic is enhancing the travel experience and setting a new benchmark for in-flight services in the European aviation sector.