SpaceX Gets FCC Approval for Starlink Internet on Moving Boats, Planes, Trucks

SpaceX has been granted approval by the Federal Communications Commission to allow for Starlink internet on moving RVs, boats and flights, reports CNBC.

“Authorizing a new class of [customer] terminals for SpaceX’s satellite system will expand the range of broadband capabilities to meet the growing user demands that now require connectivity while on the move, whether driving an RV across the country, moving a freighter from Europe to a U.S. port, or while on a domestic or international flight,” said FCC international bureau chief Tom Sullivan in an authorization announced on Thursday.

SpaceX currently has about 2,700 satellites in low Earth orbit, mainly high-speed internet for hard-to-reach places and rural areas.

Starlink has signed deals with JSX and Hawaiian Airlines for in-flight Wi-Fi, while also recently launched Starlink for RVs, a version of the service that allows monthly access where the satellite internet is available.

Conditions of the Starlink approval note SpaceX is required to “accept any interference received from both current and future services authorized,” and added investment in the service will “assume the risk that operations may be subject to additional conditions or requirements” from the federal regulator.

Earlier today, we told you how SpaceX is urging Starlink customers to write to U.S. Senators and Representatives, to fight DISH Network’s proposed changes to the 12 GHz spectrum, which would theoretically affect Starlink customers with interference.