[Alpha Biz= Ellie Kim] SEOUL, June 4 — Korean Air is set to introduce Starlink satellite internet service on its aircraft as early as this summer, with the possibility of offering free in-flight Wi-Fi.

According to industry sources, the airline plans to begin installing Starlink Wi-Fi starting as early as next month or by September, initially on long-haul aircraft such as the Boeing 777-300ER and Airbus A350-900, with a full fleet rollout targeted by the end of next year.

Operated by SpaceX, Starlink uses low-Earth orbit satellites to deliver high-speed connectivity of up to 500 Mbps, enabling passengers to stream video, use messaging apps and access cloud-based services during flights.

The service is expected to be extended to other Hanjin Group carriers, including Asiana Airlines and low-cost affiliates.

Industry observers say Korean Air may face pressure to offer the service for free, as global carriers such as Air France and United Airlines have already introduced complimentary Starlink-based Wi-Fi.

 

 

[ⓒ 알파경제. 무단전재-재배포 금지]