Wizz Air is making a significant move to upgrade the passenger experience, announcing that it will offer Starlink internet connectivity on its aircraft, with the technology set to be deployed starting in 2027.
SpaceX's service is expected to offer passengers fast in-flight connectivity, with significantly lower latency than older satellite Wi-Fi technologies. The Starlink deployment will be gradual and will cover Wizz Air's entire fleet. The company has not disclosed the financial terms of the agreement, while the question of whether the service will be provided free of charge or charged separately to passengers also remains open.
The decision is of particular importance for the aviation market, as Wizz Air operates under a strict low-cost model, in which limiting additional costs is a key priority. Its choice contrasts with the stance of other European low-cost carriers. Ryanair, for example, has expressed reservations about the cost of such an investment. Its chief executive, Michael O'Leary has estimated that using Starlink could cost the company up to $250 million a year, including additional fuel consumption. EasyJet has also taken a similar stance, given that it has considered the technology but believes that the economics have not yet made the investment attractive enough.
Starlink, however, is gradually gaining ground in air transport. The technology has already been adopted or selected by major airlines internationally, including American Airlines, Southwest, United, Alaska Airlines, Singapore Airlines and Emirates.
For Wizz Air, the move is an attempt to offer a more modern travel experience while maintaining a low-cost model. The ability to access the internet during the flight can be a significant competitive advantage, especially in a market where passengers are now comparing not only prices but also the services provided.
The announcement also comes at a time of strong growth for Wizz Air. The company continues to increase its capacity and number of flights, strengthening its presence in European and regional markets.
The development is of particular interest for Cyprus, as Wizz Air has a significant presence in our country, maintaining a base at Larnaka Airport and operating more than 30 routes to and from Cypriot airports. The introduction of Starlink to its fleet means that in the coming years, passengers traveling to and from Cyprus with the company will also be able to enjoy fast internet connection during the flight.
(Source: Reuters)
This article first appeared, in Greek, in Hermes Airports' online newsletter, Flight Mode. Click here to view it.
