Virgin Atlantic will become the first UK airline to offer free, high-speed Starlink wifi across its entire long-haul fleet, starting in 2026 for Flying Club members. Robbie Hodges reports 

Virgin Atlantic is set to become the first UK airline to roll out Starlink in-flight connectivity, with plans to introduce streaming-quality wifi across its long-haul fleet starting from the third quarter of 2026.

The airline’s Starlink partnership comes as part of a broader modernisation of its fleet and onboard services, unveiled during a Consumer Experience showcase in London earlier this month. 

Developed by SpaceX, Starlink is a satellite-based internet service that uses a network of low Earth orbit satellites to deliver high-speed, low-latency broadband. The technology is designed to provide reliable connectivity even in the most remote parts of the world – including those typically difficult to reach by conventional satellite systems.Virgin Atlantic passengers will soon be able to access what the airline describes as “the fastest wifi in the skies,” with the service being available entirely free of charge to members of its Flying Club loyalty programme. Once live, customers will be able to browse, stream and stay connected across multiple devices simultaneously, including laptops, tablets and smartphones.

Installation of the new connectivity system will begin across Virgin Atlantic’s fleet of Boeing 787 Dreamliners, Airbus A350s and A330neos from Q3 2026. The full rollout is expected to be completed by the end of 2027, delivering a consistent digital experience across the airline’s entire long-haul fleet.

Virgin Atlantic says the new system will offer passengers a “home away from home” internet experience, enabling them to stream television shows, watch live sports, game with friends on the ground, shop online and stay in touch with friends and family in real time.

“We never stop innovating for our guests and today, in a first for any UK airline, we’ll soon have free, streaming quality, unlimited, fleet-wide wifi,” said Siobhan Fitzpatrick, Chief Experience Officer at Virgin Atlantic.

“Together with Starlink, we are delighted to provide our guests with the best connectivity in the skies, further elevating our onboard experience.

“The new service allows our guests to create a home away from home experience, allowing customers to connect seamlessly, from the moment they board the aircraft, enjoying the same quality in the air as they do on the ground.”

Virgin Atlantic is joining a growing list of international carriers that have partnered with Starlink to enhance their onboard digital offerings. Other airlines using the technology include United, Air France, Scandinavian Airlines and Qatar Airways among others.