Wizz Air passengers will soon be able to access high-speed internet from next year, as the budget airline announces a major partnership with Elon Musk's SpaceX. The Hungarian-based carrier confirmed on Monday that it will install Starlink internet systems on all its new generation aircraft, making it the first European ultra-low-cost airline to adopt the technology.
Starlink Technology to Enhance Passenger Experience
Starlink, owned by SpaceX, uses thousands of satellites orbiting Earth to provide high-speed internet connectivity. Other airlines, including British Airways and Virgin Atlantic, have already begun offering or announced plans to offer the service on their flights. Wizz Air has not yet disclosed whether passengers will be charged a fee to use the internet.
Wizz Air's Vision for Affordable Connectivity
Ian Malin, Chief Commercial Officer at Wizz Air, stated: "Ultra low-cost travel has always been about making opportunities accessible to more people. In 2027, we're taking that philosophy into the space era. Our customers shouldn't have to choose between affordable fares and reliable internet onboard to stay connected to the people, work and moments that matter most. We're proud to lead that change by collaborating with Starlink to bring maximum benefit to Wizz Air."
Previous Clash Between Elon Musk and Ryanair CEO
The announcement follows a public dispute in January between Elon Musk and Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary over the feasibility of using Starlink on Ryanair aircraft. After O'Leary claimed it was not feasible, Musk called him an "idiot" and a "chimp," and even mused on social media about buying the airline. O'Leary later acknowledged that the "PR spat" drove a 2-3% increase in sales for Ryanair. He humorously stated at a press conference that his team would visit X's office in Dublin to give Musk a free Ryanair ticket as a thank you for the "wonderful boost" in publicity. O'Leary added: "If he wants to call me an idiot, he wouldn't be the first and he certainly won't be the last... But if it helps to boost Ryanair sales, you could insult me all day, every day."
