Qatar Airways successfully launched its first flight using Starlink technology on a Boeing 777, flying from Doha to London on October 22, 2024. In doing so, it became the first airline in the MENA (Middle East and North Africa) region to offer high-speed, low-latency internet provided by SpaceX's Starlink, the first and largest satellite network in low Earth orbit. The satellite provides passengers with high-speed, free internet from gate to gate, even at 35,000 feet.
This makes Qatar Airways the region’s first and largest carrier to provide such advanced connectivity.
Record-Setting Advances
Qatar’s national carrier is ahead of schedule with its ambitious tech upgrades. It plans to equip 12 Boeing 777-300s with the new technology by the end of 2024, update the entire Boeing 777 fleet by 2025, and extend these updates to the Airbus A350 fleet by summer 2025.
The airline has also set several industry firsts with this news:
- It's the first to launch a widebody Boeing 777 equipped with Starlink.
- It introduced the first Starlink-equipped passenger aircraft within the MENA region.
- It obtained the first Starlink Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) for any Boeing aircraft.
- It features the largest and longest-range passenger aircraft to be fitted with Starlink technology.
Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, commented on the achievement, "We’re thrilled to launch our first Starlink-equipped flight, proving once again why Qatar Airways is at the forefront of the aviation industry. This milestone, paired with our commitment to rapidly roll out Starlink across our entire modern fleet, demonstrates our relentless pursuit of offering passengers an in-flight experience that transcends the constraints of traditional air travel. By providing Starlink's reliable, reliable internet on board, we are connecting people to the things they love the most, even at 35,000 feet, making every journey with us a memorable one."
Passenger Experience
With Starlink, passengers on board the Boeing 777 can enjoy an internet experience that closely resembles what they’d expect on the ground. They can keep up with important emails or meet deadlines while flying. Uninterrupted access to live streaming services means they can catch the latest episode of their favourite series or even a live football match as it happens. This effectively eliminates the feeling of being disconnected during long flights.
This is a major plus for Qatar Privilege Club members, who can now gain even better value from their Qatar Airways Avios — all part of the airline's strategy to deliver an exceptional travel experience and maximise passenger loyalty benefits.
Qatar Airways isn't alone in improving in-flight connectivity — other airlines, such as Air France and United, have also announced plans to integrate Starlink. However, Skytrax named it the World’s Best Airline in 2024, which really sets it apart as a top choice for travellers worldwide. With its already renowned Qsuite in the Qatar Airways Business Class and now the Starlink rollout, the airline is sharply focusing on leading the pack in global aviation.
