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EasyJet to equip planes with Wi-Fi after Musk deal – are French flights impacted?
Service to be rolled out on carrier’s Airbus fleet from next year following partnership with Starlink
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EasyJet passengers will soon be able to browse the internet, scroll through apps and stream videos during their flights, as the airline has announced plans to introduce onboard Wi-Fi for the first time.
The low-cost carrier announced a partnership with Elon Musk-controlled SpaceX’s Starlink satellite internet service on October 26, with installations set to begin in the first half of 2027 and the rollout expected to be completed by early 2028.
“Fast, reliable connectivity from take-off to landing means people can work, stream, or stay in touch without interruption,” Gwynne Shotwell, SpaceX’s president and chief operating officer, said.
The programme covers easyJet’s Airbus A320, A320neo and A321neo aircraft, which operate across its European network, including routes to and from France.
This means passengers travelling to and from France are also likely to benefit from the upgrade. However, the airline has not yet confirmed which routes will receive the service first.
Only the airline’s A319s are excluded, as the plan is for them to be retired by 2029.
“Innovation is in easyJet’s DNA,” Kenton Jarvis, easyJet’s chief executive, said .
“Giving customers the opportunity to get online in the air will mean even greater choice and convenience when you fly with easyJet. Ultimately, it’s yet another way we’re making travel easy.”
EasyJet says the technology could also allow passengers to check their flight status through the airline’s website or app and look up information about their destination, including weather, transport and tourist attractions.
The system could eventually allow passengers to order items from the onboard menu from their seats.
However, the airline has not yet said whether access to Starlink will be free, included in certain fares or offered as a paid extra.
Ryanair has previously ruled out installing Starlink on its own fleet.
“We don’t think our passengers are willing to pay for Wi-Fi for an average one-hour flight,” Michael O’Leary, Ryanair’s chief executive, told Reuters, citing also the aerodynamic drag caused by installing the service’s antenna on the plane’s fuselage, which he said would increase fuel consumption.
