KLM and Royal Air Maroc sign up for Starlink inflight internet
KLM will install Starlink on its long-haul fleet from mid-2027, while Royal Air Maroc plans a fleet-wide rollout, making it the first African carrier to pick the service.
Two airlines have committed to installing Starlink inflight internet, adding more than 100 aircraft to the installation backlog.
KLM will equip its long-haul planes with the high-speed service, offering free internet to FlyingBlue members on intercontinental flights. The carrier's European fleet has offered complimentary internet since the start of this year, using Viasat's satellite solution. Its long-haul aircraft currently rely on SES's 2Ku system, which they have flown with for close to a decade.
The Dutch airline's chief executive, Marjan Rintel, said the change answers a long-standing passenger request. Service is due to begin in mid-2027. KLM's single-aisle jets are not part of the switch for now.
The decision aligns KLM's long-haul operation with Air France, which is rolling out Starlink across its fleet.
Royal Air Maroc intends to deploy the service fleet-wide and becomes the first airline based in Africa to select Starlink as a supplier. The Moroccan carrier did not issue a press release, announcing the move through social media posts instead. Its announcement does not indicate whether the service will be free.
Sources
- paxex.aeroKLM, Royal Air Maroc Select Starlink