Southwest Airlines has placed its first Starlink-equipped aircraft into commercial service, joining a growing number of carriers adopting SpaceX's satellite-based internet system.
The aircraft, Boeing 737-800 N8543Z, entered service on June 22 operating a flight from Dallas to Albuquerque. Built in 2017, the jet is configured with 175 seats in a single-class layout.
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Southwest said additional aircraft will begin receiving Starlink installations later this year, with plans to gradually equip more of its Boeing 737 fleet.
“Starlink delivers a new era of inflight connectivity to Southwest,” said Tony Roach, Chief Customer & Brand Officer. “Starting with this first aircraft, we will be rapidly integrating Starlink into our fleet this year. This ultra-fast WiFi brings an at-home experience to the air and redefines how Customers can stay connected, be productive, and make the most of their time while flying at 35,000 feet.”
The carrier is the world's largest Boeing 737 operator, with 796 aircraft in service. Its fleet consists entirely of 737 variants, including 321 737 MAX 8s, 287 737-700s and 188 737-800s. The airline is also the launch customer for the Boeing 737 MAX 7, which remains in certification testing. The aircraft is expected to receive approval in the coming weeks after years of delays.
Starlink has become one of the most sought-after inflight connectivity solutions among airlines due to its ability to provide high-speed internet through a network of low Earth orbit satellites. Several major US carriers have either introduced the service or announced plans to do so, including United Airlines, American Airlines and Alaska Airlines.
Southwest offers onboard Wi-Fi free of charge to members of its Rapid Rewards loyalty program through a sponsorship agreement with T-Mobile.
