Emirates flyers will soon see a major upgrade in inflight connectivity as the airline prepares to launch the world’s first Starlink-equipped Airbus A380. The move forms part of a wider plan to build the largest Starlink-enabled international wide-body fleet, the carrier says.
Commencing this month, the Dubai-based airline will roll out the high-speed service across 232 Boeing 777 and A380 aircraft, with installation expected to be completed by mid-2027. Emirates will start with its Boeing 777 fleet before switching to the A380 in early 2026.
According to Emirates, customers across all cabins will receive complimentary access to the fast wi-fi service, allowing them to stream, game, work, browse and make calls as though they were on the ground. The system will support use on both personal devices and seatback screens.
Emirates has already fitted its first Boeing 777-300ER with the service. The aircraft, A6-EPF, is currently on display at the Dubai Airshow before returning to commercial service immediately after the event.
To maximise coverage and performance, each Boeing 777 will receive two antennae, while each A380 will feature three, an industry first. Live TV over Starlink will also be introduced late next year.
The project aligns with Emirates’ broader fleet refresh, now 76 aircraft into a 220-strong retrofit program.
Emirates currently flies to five ports in Australia: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide. Read our review of the airline’s long-haul offering from earlier this year.
“We’re introducing the world’s fastest wi-fi, elevating what passengers can expect from inflight connectivity, like seamless productivity, real-time communication with loved ones, and uninterrupted connection to their digital lives. But that’s just one piece of the transformation happening across our fleet,” Emirates Airline President Sir Tim Clark said.
“Starlink is being installed in tandem with the most ambitious cabin refurbishment programme in aviation, including brand new Premium Economy cabins, an enhanced Business Class, refreshed First Class, expanded and upgraded entertainment system technologies, and now, industry-leading connectivity.”
KARRYON UNPACKS: For agents, this rollout is a big win for customers who expect seamless connectivity, no matter the route. Free, ultra-fast wi-fi across the entire Emirates fleet changes the conversation around long-haul comfort, especially for Aussies heading to Europe or the Middle East. It also signals where premium carriers are heading: tech-led upgrades that genuinely improve the experience, not just cosmetic refreshes.
