Tokyo-based Zipair announced this week it has selected SpaceX’s Starlink for its in-flight Wi-Fi.
“Once integrated, all ZIPAIR passengers will be able to seamlessly connect to Starlink’s high-speed, low-latency network anytime onboard – enabling real-time video conferencing, streaming, and gaming for all passengers,” said SpaceX Vice President of Starlink Sales Jonathan Hofeller, “As the first Asian airline to implement Starlink, ZIPAIR is setting a new standard for in-flight connectivity, and we’re excited to work with the company to provide this modern in-flight connectivity experience.”
“We are committed to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in air travel and are excited to be a part of that future,” said ZIPAIR President Shingo Nishida, in a statement. “We believe that our work with SpaceX is very important to increase the speed of in-flight Internet communications and achieve a new standard in the industry. ”
Zipair becomes the first Asian airline to set up Starlink internet. Both companies are now working through an engineering review and regulatory certification process to install Starlink dishes on the Zipair fleet.
Currently, all Zipair flights offer complimentary in-flight Wi-Fi, but once Starlink is implemented high-speed internet will become available, much faster than before.
SpaceX launched Starlink Aviation back in October 2022, offering its satellite internet service for airplanes. Earlier this month, SpaceX disclosed it was expanding Starlink to more aircraft soon, including planes from Airbus, Boeing and more.
Earlier today, SpaceX launched 49 more Starlink satellites to low-Earth orbit, expanding its constellation. Another Starlink launch is slated for this Thursday.
