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FinanceFrontier Airlines to debut in-flight Wi-Fi in 2027 with SpaceX's Starlink
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Frontier Airlines announced it will introduce in-flight Wi-Fi service from SpaceX's Starlink starting in early 2027, marking the carrier's first-ever internet offering. The deal also includes four other budget airlines (Volaris, Wizz, Jetsmart, Cebu Pacific) all backed by private equity firm Indigo Partners. Frontier was one of the last U.S. holdouts to add Wi-Fi, with former CEO Barry Biffle citing weight concerns. Starlink has now signed agreements with over 40 carriers globally, including United and American Airlines. The move comes as budget carriers face pressure to upgrade services amid competition from larger airlines' premium cabin revenue growth. Frontier is also planning to debut first-class seats next year. Pricing for the Wi-Fi service has not been disclosed.
Source report
Frontier Airlines | Nurphoto | Getty Images
Frontier Airlines and four other budget carriers with more than 1,000 planes between them will debut in-flight Wi-Fi early next year from SpaceX's Starlink, marking another win for the satellite internet provider.
Key Details
- Frontier Airlines said it will debut Starlink satellite internet early next year.
- The carrier does not currently offer in-flight Wi-Fi.
- It is the latest win for the SpaceX business, which has inked deals with major carriers including United Airlines and American Airlines.
Rollout Timeline
Frontier's first Airbus plane equipped with Starlink internet will roll out in early 2027, the airline said Tuesday. CNBC reported in 2022 that Frontier was in talks with Starlink to add its first in-flight Wi-Fi service.
Pricing and Availability
A Frontier spokeswoman declined to say whether flyers could use the service for free. Major airlines that have signed deals with Starlink have been offering Wi-Fi complimentary for loyalty program members.
Background
Frontier was one of the last U.S. holdouts to add Wi-Fi. Former CEO Barry Biffle previously said the airline was hesitant to add weight to its planes with the equipment needed for the service.
Industry Context
Starlink, a part of Elon Musk's SpaceX, has signed deals with more than 40 carriers around the world, including United Airlines and American Airlines, as airlines ramp up their in-flight services and customers grow to expect at-home-quality internet in the sky. The airlines declined to disclose the terms of the agreements. SpaceX did not immediately comment.
The Indigo Partners Connection
The carriers in the latest Starlink deal — Frontier, Mexico's Volaris, European budget carrier Wizz, Chile's Jetsmart, and the Philippines' Cebu Pacific — all share private equity firm Indigo Partners as an investor, which is led by serial airline investor Bill Franke.
Market Pressures
Budget carriers have been under pressure to go upmarket as larger rivals post revenue growth from the front of the cabin, upending discounters' once-profitable model of no-frills seating and amenities. Frontier is planning to debut first-class seats next year.
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Source
US Top News and AnalysisWestern
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Frontier Airlines to Launch Starlink In-Flight Wi-Fi in 2027