Korean Air, Asiana Offer Free Starlink Wi‑Fi, Srating on Select Flights

Korean Air and Asiana Airlines will provide complimentary in-flight Wi-Fi services via SpaceX's Starlink satellite communication system. This marks the first instance of East Asian full-service carriers implementing Starlink. The free Wi-Fi service will debut on select flights commencing September 15, 2024. Starlink-enabled Wi-Fi will initially roll out on four Korean Air aircraft – three Airbus A350-900s, one Boeing B777-300ER – and ten Asiana Airlines aircraft – nine A350-900s, one A330-300.

The service will focus on mid-to-long-haul routes, including the Americas, Europe, and Southeast Asia, as well as some short-haul flights. It's planned that the service will be available on most of the carriers' aircraft by year-end 2027, following their merger into a unified Korean Air in December. The Starlink-based Wi-Fi is accessible across all seat classes.

To connect, passengers simply switch their devices to airplane mode, join the airline's Wi-Fi portal, input their name and seat number, and agree to view an ad. The fast, stable internet service, powered by Starlink's low-earth orbit satellite network, enables seamless streaming, music, web searches, messaging, gaming, and file transfers.

However, voice and video calls, and live SNS broadcasting are restricted per airline policies. While technically possible, this is to maintain a comfortable, secure in-flight atmosphere. The companies introduced this service ahead of the integrated Korean Air's launch on December 17, 2024, aiming to revolutionize the travel experience.

Unlike previous disconnected in-flight environments, passengers will enjoy a digital experience akin to being on the ground, promising a groundbreaking shift in air travel. Both companies plan to swiftly implement all necessary measures, including Starlink communication equipment installation. For aircraft undergoing modification, current paid in-flight Wi-Fi policies will remain in effect.