Southwest this week operated its first commercial flight with Starlink wireless internet access.
The carrier said the flight, operated with a Boeing 737-800, departed Dallas Love Field and landed in Albuquerque, New Mexico, on Monday.
Southwest is in the process of retrofitting its 737 fleet with Starlink antennas. The satellite-based technology provides high-speed, low-latency internet comparable to what most airline customers experience at home or at work.
“Starlink delivers a new era of inflight connectivity to Southwest,” Tony Roach, the carrier’s chief customer and brand officer, said in a news release. “Starting with this first aircraft, we will be rapidly integrating Starlink into our fleet this year. This ultra-fast WiFi brings an at-home experience to the air and redefines how customers can stay connected, be productive, and make the most of their time while flying at 35,000 feet.”
Southwest announced its partnership with Starlink in February and aims to have antennas installed on over 300 aircraft by the end of the year. Its long-term goal is to have every aircraft in its fleet connected.
The airline currently offers free wireless internet to loyalty members via T-Mobile.
