Frontier Airlines announced plans to equip its aircraft with SpaceX’s (NASDAQ:SPCX) Starlink satellite internet service, with the first Starlink-enabled aircraft expected to enter commercial service in early 2027.
The decision makes Frontier one of the latest airlines to adopt SpaceX’s connectivity platform as demand for high-speed onboard internet continues to grow.
First Starlink-Equipped Aircraft Expected in 2027
The Denver-based carrier said installation will begin with an Airbus aircraft scheduled to enter service in early 2027 before expanding across the fleet.
The upgrade is designed to provide passengers with significantly faster and more reliable internet access during flights.
Frontier Joins Growing List of Starlink Customers
By choosing Starlink, Frontier joins several major airlines that have already committed to SpaceX’s satellite network, including Southwest Airlines and United Airlines, further strengthening Starlink’s position in the aviation connectivity market.
The agreement also increases SpaceX’s lead over Amazon as airlines continue selecting inflight broadband providers.
Airline Highlights Improved Passenger Experience
Frontier Chief Executive Officer Jimmy Dempsey said the new service will enhance onboard connectivity for travellers.
“Starlink transforms the onboard experience, giving customers the flexibility to work, stream, browse, and stay connected throughout their journey,” Dempsey said.
The airline expects the service to support everything from video streaming to remote working and general internet browsing while in the air.
Budget Airlines Continue Adopting Starlink
Frontier joins a growing number of low-cost carriers deploying Starlink technology, including Wizz Air in Europe, Mexico’s Volaris, Chile’s JetSmart Airlines and the Philippines’ Cebu Air.
American Airlines also announced earlier this year that it plans to begin installing Starlink on more than 500 aircraft in early 2027, while Alaska Air Group and Emirates have already committed to the platform.
Competition Continues Between Starlink and Amazon
While Starlink continues to expand its airline customer base, Amazon is also making progress through its Project Kuiper aviation offering.
Delta Air Lines selected Amazon’s LEO satellite service earlier this year for deployment beginning in 2028, while JetBlue became the first airline to adopt Amazon’s inflight connectivity platform last year.
Not every airline has embraced satellite internet upgrades. Ryanair Chief Executive Michael O’Leary said in January that the carrier would not install Starlink equipment because of concerns over the additional aircraft weight and associated fuel costs.
Frontier had also delayed introducing onboard Wi-Fi for similar reasons, with former Chief Executive Barry Biffle previously citing the weight of traditional connectivity equipment.
SpaceX has now secured agreements with more than 40 airlines worldwide, further expanding Starlink’s presence in the commercial aviation sector.
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