SAS Taps Starlink for In-Flight Wi-Fi: What to Expect?

For years, airline passengers flying in Europe have struggled with slow and unreliable in-flight Wi-Fi, often experiencing frustratingly low speeds and frequent interruptions. Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) plans to change this. Starting in late 2025, the airline will adopt Starlink technology, following in the footsteps of its part-owner, Air France, which announced its use of Starlink last year.

By joining a growing number of airlines that are utilizing low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite technology, SAS aims to provide passengers with a seamless, high-speed internet experience from gate to gate. This new service will offer speeds comparable to home broadband, eliminating the frustrating interruptions that have long been a part of air travel.

Internet from Takeoff to Landing

Unlike traditional satellite-based in-flight Wi-Fi, which often struggles over remote regions and oceans, Starlink’s network of low-orbit satellites promises a stable, high-speed connection even over challenging areas like the North Pole, the Atlantic Ocean, and the North Sea—areas where SAS is often flying through.

Photo: Courtesy of SAS / Andy Prhat

“By introducing this new technology, we’re connecting our passengers to the world like never before,” says Paul Verhagen, Chief Commercial Officer at SAS. “We’re putting an end to frustrating interruptions and ushering in a new era of connectivity. Whether flying over the Atlantic or the North Sea, our passengers can now count on a connection that is as stable and seamless as it is fast.”

Unlike current systems that activate only after takeoff and disconnect during descent, SAS passengers will have full connectivity from the moment they board until they disembark—offering an uninterrupted digital experience for work, entertainment, or staying in touch with loved ones.

Photo: Courtesy of SAS

“We’re excited to provide reliable, high-speed internet across the entire SAS fleet and help level up the in-flight experiences for passengers and crew from gate to gate,” says SpaceX Vice President of Starlink Enterprise Sales, Jason Fritch.

“We’re especially proud that Starlink can offer connectivity for passengers that’s as good, if not better, than at their homes while flying across the Atlantic, North Sea, and North Pole, which historically had been challenging for in-flight internet.”

A Game-Changer in European Aviation

The introduction of Starlink Wi-Fi means SAS passengers will be able to browse, stream, video call, and even play online games seamlessly across multiple devices—including smartphones, tablets, and laptops—without the lags or buffering common with conventional systems.

Photo: Courtesy of SAS / Andy Prhat

“Gate-to-gate connectivity isn’t just an improvement—it’s a breakthrough in convenience and reliability,” explains Verhagen. “It gives our customers the freedom to work seamlessly, stay connected, and enjoy uninterrupted entertainment throughout their flight.”

Beyond the passenger experience, Starlink’s technology brings added efficiency. The satellite terminals are designed to reduce aerodynamic drag and fuel consumption, aligning with SAS’ broader commitment to more sustainable air travel.

SAS Joins a List of Starlink-Equipped Airlines

SAS is not alone in its push for next-generation in-flight connectivity. Its part-owner, Air France, will introduce free Starlink-powered Wi-Fi starting in the summer of 2025.

Other major airlines, including United Airlines, Qatar Airways, Hawaiian Airlines, Air New Zealand, Air Baltic, ZIPAIR, and JSX, have also partnered with SpaceX to enhance their onboard internet capabilities.

Photo: Courtesy of Qatar Airways / YouTube

In October 2024, Qatar Airways set a new benchmark for in-flight connectivity, becoming the first in the world to operate a Starlink-equipped Boeing 777, offering passengers an unprecedented experience on its Doha-to-London flight.

For the first time, travelers aboard the aircraft could stream, browse, game, or work seamlessly while in flight.

“This milestone, paired with our commitment to rapidly roll out Starlink across our entire fleet, demonstrates our relentless pursuit of offering passengers an in-flight experience that transcends the constraints of traditional air travel,” said Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer Badr Mohammed Al-Meer.

Photo: Courtesy of Qatar Airways

The airline is now accelerating its Starlink deployment, aiming to have the entire 777 fleet upgraded with the system by 2025. Its Airbus A350s are set to follow in the summer of 2025, a full year ahead of schedule.

United Fast-Tracks Starlink Rollout

In North America, United is fast-tracking the installation of the service across its global fleet, with testing set to begin in February. The first commercial flight featuring Starlink is expected aboard an Embraer E-175 this spring.

United has an ambitious plan to equip its entire two-cabin regional fleet with Starlink by the end of the year, with mainline aircraft to follow shortly after. Ultimately, the airline intends to offer fast, reliable, and free internet access across every plane in its fleet.

Photo: Courtesy of United Airlines

This rapid deployment makes United the first major U.S. carrier to introduce complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi for its loyalty program members, marking a pivotal shift in the airline industry’s approach to in-flight connectivity.

In Europe, SAS passengers can look forward to an always-on, high-speed connection starting in late 2025. With download speeds of up to 350Mbps, Starlink will redefine what passengers can expect from in-flight Wi-Fi. As SAS moves toward full implementation, it’s clear that the days of sluggish, unreliable internet in the skies are coming to an end.