Southwest Airlines has announced it will equip its fleet with Starlink Wi-Fi, starting in summer 2026. By the end of that year, more than 300 aircraft will feature the system, offering passengers ultra-fast internet speeds of up to 250 Mbps.
Currently, Southwest's in-flight Wi-Fi costs $8 per device, with free access for Rapid Rewards members. Speeds vary from as low as 20 Mbps to a rare 150 Mbps, sufficient for browsing and messaging but inadequate for streaming without buffering. Starlink promises seamless streaming on multiple devices, live gaming at 38,000 feet, and improved reliability in adverse weather.
Starlink uses over 9,000 laser-linked satellites in low Earth orbit, approximately 350 miles above the planet, compared to traditional satellites at 22,000 miles. This proximity reduces lag and enhances performance. Tony Roach, Southwest's Executive Vice President and Chief Customer & Brand Officer, said: 'We know our customers expect seamless connectivity across all their devices when they travel. Starlink delivers that at-home experience in the air.'
Southwest has not disclosed whether its Wi-Fi pricing will change for Starlink-equipped planes. The carrier joins Alaska Airlines, which plans to install Starlink in 2026, and United Airlines, which began fitting the system in May 2025.
