American Airlines announced Tuesday that it plans to install Starlink internet service on more than 500 narrow-body Airbus aircraft starting early next year, making it the latest airline to partner with SpaceX’s satellite internet business for onboard Wi-Fi.
The agreement represents another major commercial win for Starlink, which has become one of the most important revenue-generating divisions within SpaceX. The deal also strengthens Starlink’s position against competitors such as Amazon’s Project Kuiper and established in-flight connectivity providers like Viasat.
Starlink uses a network of low Earth orbit satellites to deliver high-speed broadband internet to consumers and enterprise customers worldwide. In recent years, the company has increasingly targeted airlines and cruise operators as part of its expansion strategy.
Several major airlines have already introduced Starlink connectivity on parts of their fleets, including United Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Qatar Airways, Lufthansa Group, British Airways, and Alaska Airlines, following its merger with Hawaiian Airlines, according to SpaceX’s recently released IPO registration filing.
Under the new agreement, American Airlines will equip its Airbus A321XLR and A320neo aircraft with Starlink technology. However, the airline’s Boeing fleet is not currently included in the partnership.
The deal arrives as SpaceX prepares for its highly anticipated IPO expected next month, which analysts project could become one of the largest public offerings in history.
