Southwest Airlines will install Starlink high-speed internet across its entire fleet of 803 aircraft, marking one of the largest inflight connectivity upgrades in U.S. aviation.
The first Starlink-equipped aircraft is expected to enter service this summer, with more than 300 planes scheduled to feature the new system by the end of the year. The rollout will replace Southwest’s current WiFi providers, Viasat and Anuvu, consolidating connectivity under SpaceX’s satellite-based network.
According to the airline, the move will allow passengers to “stream, share, and scroll in the sky at lightning-fast speeds,” significantly improving bandwidth and reliability compared to legacy satellite systems. The transition also positions Southwest competitively as inflight connectivity becomes a central part of the passenger experience, particularly for business travelers and digitally connected leisure flyers.
Southwest becomes the third U.S. airline brand to partner with Starlink, following Hawaiian Airlines and United Airlines. The growing adoption of low-earth orbit satellite technology reflects a broader industry shift toward faster, more seamless onboard connectivity.
The announcement builds on Southwest’s recent customer-focused initiatives. In October, the carrier began offering free WiFi to members of its Rapid Rewards loyalty program, a move aimed at increasing enrollment and strengthening customer retention.
With demand for inflight streaming and real-time connectivity rising, Starlink integration could become a differentiator for Southwest as airlines increasingly compete not only on fares and schedules but also on digital experience.
