Virgin Atlantic has become the first UK airline to partner with Elon Musk’s Starlink to deliver high-speed, streaming-quality Wi-Fi across its entire fleet, setting a new benchmark for in-flight connectivity in the British aviation industry.
The deal, announced by Virgin Atlantic CEO Shai Weiss on Tuesday evening, will see the airline roll out Starlink’s satellite-based internet service beginning in the third quarter of 2026, with full implementation expected by the end of 2027. While the financial details of the agreement remain undisclosed, Weiss described it simply as “a lot.”
Once launched, passengers in all cabins will have access to unlimited, fast Wi-Fi — free of charge for members of Virgin Atlantic’s Flying Club, the airline’s frequent flyer programme, which is free to join.
The partnership utilises Starlink, a satellite internet constellation operated by Musk’s SpaceX. Its network of low Earth orbit satellites offers low latency and high-speed internet, making it possible for passengers to stream content and stay connected, even when flying over remote areas such as oceans or polar regions.
“This is about more than just Wi-Fi — it’s a symbol of our commitment to innovation and elevating the passenger experience,” said Weiss in a statement. “We’re investing billions to fly the youngest fleet across the Atlantic and to become the UK’s first airline offering free, streaming-quality Wi-Fi fleet-wide.”
The Starlink agreement is part of a broader $17 billion (£13.2 billion) investment strategy aimed at repositioning Virgin Atlantic as a premium, long-haul flag carrier. This includes a full retrofit of its Boeing 787-9 fleet starting in 2028, the introduction of more premium seating, and the launch of new clubhouses at New York’s JFK and London Heathrow airports.
In addition, Virgin Atlantic is set to introduce a new loyalty programme tailored for infrequent travellers who return year after year. The airline has also partnered with OpenAI to develop real-time voice and emotionally intelligent AI concierge services, further enhancing its digital offerings.
Virgin Atlantic joins a growing list of global airlines — including Qatar Airways, Hawaiian Airlines, United Airlines, and AirBaltic — that have signed on to use Starlink for in-flight connectivity.
The move marks a significant milestone in the airline’s digital transformation and reinforces Virgin Atlantic’s commitment to customer-centric innovation in an increasingly competitive aviation landscape.
