Air New Zealand is to install Starlink antenna on its domestic aircraft fleet for broadband in-flight connectivity. The plan includes installations on the airline’s Airbus A320 and also its ATR 72 turbo-prop aircraft, and believed to be the first use anywhere on turbo-prop aircraft.

“Whether travelling for work or leisure, we know maintaining seamless internet connectivity is something that will transform the travel experience for customers. Our free and accessible WiFi onboard international flights has proved incredibly popular among customers, so we can’t wait to bring connectivity to domestic flights,” stated Nikhil Ravishankar, Air New Zealand’s Chief Digital Officer.

First step, however, is a 4-6 month trial of the equipment to measure demand and passenger satisfaction.

Air New Zealand is already offering free WiFi on the international fleet, and connecting via Viasat’s satellites.

The appeal of SpaceX’s Starlink equipment is its much reduced roof-mounted antenna which opens up the technology for smaller aircraft.

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Categories: Articles, Broadband, Satellite

Tags: in-flight connectivity, spacex, starlink