Qatar Airways Launches World’s First Boeing 777 with Starlink Connectivity

Qatar Airways has elevated the future of in-flight connectivity by launching the world’s first Boeing 777 equipped with Starlink, operating its inaugural flight from Doha to London on Tuesday, October 22.

This milestone positions Qatar Airways, named the World’s Best Airline by Skytrax in 2024, as a leader in incorporating advanced technology on board.

As the largest and first airline in the MENA region to provide passengers with ultra-high-speed, low-latency internet via Starlink, Qatar Airways offers this service for free from gate to gate. The national carrier of Qatar plans to exceed its initial target of three Starlink-equipped aircraft by introducing 12 upgraded Boeing 777-300s by the end of 2024.

The airline has also committed to outfitting its entire Boeing 777 fleet with this technology by 2025, ahead of schedule, with plans for its Airbus A350 fleet to follow in the summer of 2025. This significant initiative underscores Qatar Airways’ dedication to bridging the gap between the skies and the ground by providing ultra-fast internet access.

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Engineered by SpaceX, Starlink boasts the world’s first and largest satellite constellation in low Earth orbit, delivering reliable, high-speed internet that allows passengers to stay connected with friends and family, stream entertainment, watch live sports, play online games, or work efficiently at 35,000 feet—all at no cost and with easy one-click access.

Commenting on this development, Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer Badr Mohammed Al-Meer stated, “We are excited to launch our first Starlink-equipped flight, reaffirming Qatar Airways’ leadership in the aviation industry. This milestone, combined with our commitment to rapidly roll out Starlink across our entire modern fleet, reflects our relentless pursuit of an in-flight experience that transcends the limitations of traditional air travel. By providing seamless, reliable internet on board, we connect people to what they love most, making every journey with us memorable.”

With advanced satellites and expertise in spacecraft and on-orbit operations, Starlink delivers internet access globally, even over oceans and remote areas previously unreachable by conventional cellular or Wi-Fi signals.

SpaceX CEO Elon Musk added, “Over time, you’ll find it just gets better and better. This is the minimum, and it only improves from here.”