EasyJet to add Starlink WiFi as Ryanair rejects the service
EasyJet has agreed to install SpaceX’s Starlink satellite internet on its aircraft from next year, giving passengers onboard WiFi and adding a new service as airlines compete for travellers. The deal also sets easyJet apart from Ryanair, whose chief executive Michael O’Leary rejected Starlink over concerns about fuel costs after a public dispute with Elon Musk.
The easyJet rollout is due to start in the first half of next year and finish by early 2028. O’Leary said antennas could create a 2 per cent fuel drag across Ryanair’s 650 aircraft, while Musk disputed that assessment; the two exchanged insults online in January. EasyJet carried 100 million passengers in 2025, and its chief executive said the connection could serve both leisure and business travellers.
In short
- EasyJet plans to introduce Starlink WiFi from next year.
- Installation is expected to finish by early 2028.
- Ryanair cited fuel costs after a dispute with Musk.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
EasyJet can argue that onboard Starlink WiFi would make journeys more useful and attractive, serving passengers who want to work, stay connected or enjoy online entertainment. The investment may help the airline compete for travellers and offer a service its chief executive says could benefit both business and leisure customers.
The case against
Ryanair can argue that fitting antennas across a large fleet may add weight and aerodynamic drag, increasing fuel use and costs; even a modest effect could matter across hundreds of aircraft. If many passengers do not value WiFi enough to justify that expense, declining the service may help keep fares lower and avoid passing costs on to customers.
Explained simply
EasyJet and Ryanair are two of Europe’s largest low-cost airlines. They compete for passengers by offering relatively low fares, while charging separately for some services. Onboard internet is one feature airlines may use to attract travellers, including people who want to work or stay connected during a flight.
Starlink is a satellite internet service run by SpaceX, the company founded by Elon Musk. Aircraft need equipment such as antennas to connect to satellites, and airlines must weigh the cost and effect on the plane against the service’s potential appeal to passengers. Ryanair chief executive Michael O’Leary has raised concerns about the possible effect of Starlink equipment on fuel use, which Musk has disputed.
Celebrity Culture Entertainment Space Technology Travel World
Read the full article at the source →
Originally published by Daily Mail as “EasyJet strikes deal with Starlink to offer onboard WiFi after Ryanair boss fell out with Elon Musk”.