Air New Zealand has launched a Starlink wi-fi trial on two of its domestic aircraft, including an ATR turboprop, in a world first.
From today, passengers on ZK-OXE, one of the airline’s Airbus A320s, can enjoy free high-speed internet powered by Starlink’s low Earth orbit satellites.
An ATR aircraft will join the trial later this month, giving regional travellers a taste of in-flight connectivity too.
According to the carrier, passengers will be able to scroll, stream or work mid-air just like they would at home, with the trial aiming to test how the tech performs in real-life flying conditions and how passengers respond.
Air New Zealand Chief Digital Officer Nikhil Ravishankar says the move supports the airline’s goal to create more connected and convenient journeys through digital innovation.
“We’re committed to providing an exceptional experience for all our passengers, and this innovative technology could pave the way for more seamless, high-speed connectivity in the skies for Air New Zealand,” he stated.
“We look forward to hearing from our customers as they test out onboard wi-fi. Their feedback will help guide our decision-making as we consider connectivity options for our domestic fleet.
“Being the first airline in the world to trial wi-fi on a turboprop aircraft is a proud moment for us. Our goal is to explore the potential of this technology and understand how it can enhance customer journeys.”
According to the airline, the trial marks a significant step forward for regional aviation, where internet access has traditionally been harder to deliver.
The carrier says Starlink’s low-latency system promises reliable coverage across Aotearoa, including remote areas – something local travellers are likely to appreciate on shorter domestic hops.
The move is part of Air New Zealand’s overall strategy to enhance the onboard experience, including entertainment, for passengers. In May, the airline launched its first fully retrofitted B787, with its new and improved personal screens at the forefront of the upgrades.
Wings for all
In other news, Air New Zealand has hosted its first-ever flight familiarisation day for neurodivergent children and their families, helping ease the stress of air travel.
Run in partnership with Autism New Zealand and Acorn Neurodiversity, the event was held on 7 June at Air New Zealand’s training facility.
Families walked through every step of the journey – from check-in and security to boarding and in-cabin procedures – in a low-stress, supportive environment.
“As the father of a young adult with autism, I know firsthand how lonely and overwhelming air travel sometimes feels,” Air New Zealand Senior Aircraft Programme Manager and Enable Network Lead Ed Collett said.
“That’s why I’m incredibly proud to support Air New Zealand in offering trial flights for neurodiverse children and their families. These experiences do more than simulate travel – they build confidence, reduce fear, and help remove the invisible barriers that too often limit opportunity.
“The experience also showed the power of empathy in action. Not only did it support families, but it also gave our people a deeper understanding of how small acts can make a huge difference in someone’s journey. We look forward to building on this to make the journey even better for everyone who travels with us.”
According to the carrier, the initiative is part of the airline’s broader push for accessible travel, led by its internal Enable Network.
“For many families in our community, flying can feel like an impossible task. This experience gave them the tools, the time, and the space to make it possible,” Autism New Zealand CEO Dane Dougan said.
“We’re proud to work with Air New Zealand to bring understanding and accessibility into the heart of the travel journey.”
