Alaska Airlines Completes Starlink WiFi Rollout on Regional Fleet, Targets Mainline Next

Alaska Airlines has successfully outfitted its entire regional fleet with free onboard WiFi powered by Starlink, the satellite internet service integrated via T-Mobile's network. This milestone encompasses more than 150 aircraft equipped with high-speed internet connectivity, placing Alaska and its sister carrier Hawaiian Airlines among the first U.S. airlines to provide free WiFi across the majority of their fleets.

Access to this WiFi service is granted through the airlines’ shared frequent-flyer program, Atmos Rewards. Passengers can connect simply by signing up or logging in through an automated interface, streamlining the process for new and returning users. The seamless integration enhances the onboard experience by allowing streaming, browsing, and messaging with speeds reportedly reaching 500 Mbps, significantly faster than previous inflight internet options.

While Hawaiian Airlines was the pioneer in introducing Starlink internet to the skies among U.S. carriers, Alaska Airlines claims the distinction of being the first to complete the connectivity upgrade across its entire regional fleet. With this accomplishment, Alaska is now turning its attention to equipping its mainline and widebody aircraft with similar WiFi capabilities, signaling a commitment to retrofit its Boeing 737 and 787-9 fleets.

The Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, which operates Alaska’s long-haul flights from Seattle to international destinations such as Incheon, Rome, London Heathrow, and Tokyo Narita, is expected to receive full Starlink installation shortly. This expansion will facilitate high-speed internet on some of Alaska’s busiest transpacific and transatlantic routes.

Alaska Airlines plans to complete outfitting its entire mainline fleet with Starlink connectivity by the end of 2027. Meanwhile, widebody aircraft conversions are targeted for completion by the end of the current fall season. These connected aircraft will operate from major hubs including Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, Honolulu, Portland, and San Diego, further enhancing the passenger experience on the carrier’s busiest routes.

Senior Vice President of Fleet, Products, and Guest Experience Shane Jones emphasized the critical role of the partnership with T-Mobile in delivering the fastest inflight WiFi in the sky. He noted that the overwhelmingly positive passenger response to the Starlink-powered WiFi rollout encourages Alaska to continue elevating the onboard experience for Atmos Rewards members across both Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines.

Beginning in July, all passengers seeking to use Starlink during their flights must be enrolled in the Atmos Rewards program to access the free WiFi service. This program is free to join and eligibility extends gate-to-gate connectivity to enrolled members. For passengers traveling with children under 18, either signing them up for Atmos or using reservation details enables WiFi access for younger travelers as well.

Besides regional Embraer E175 jets, where Starlink is already installed fleetwide, installations are progressing on the mainline Boeing 737 and 787-9 aircraft. Alaska’s dedication to delivering fast, reliable inflight internet aligns with its broader strategy to position itself as a premium carrier with an emphasis on guest experience and connectivity.

The completion of Starlink WiFi across Alaska’s regional fleet and the ongoing installation on mainline jets marks a significant step in inflight connectivity. It places Alaska Airlines at the forefront of onboard internet service in the U.S., offering passengers the ability to stay connected even on long international flights, a capability increasingly expected in today’s travel environment.