Volaris is integrating Starlink satellite internet across its entire fleet of Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft to provide high-speed Wi-Fi to passengers. According to the airline, the deployment is part of a broader connectivity initiative led by Indigo Partners, which aims to bring SpaceX’s low-Earth orbit (LEO) technology to more than 1,000 aircraft across several global carriers.
Volaris Fleet Upgrade and Starlink Integration
Volaris will install Starlink hardware on its fleet of over 150 aircraft, specifically the Airbus A320 and A321 models. Enrique Beltranena, president and director general of Volaris, stated that the goal is to keep passengers connected from takeoff to landing. The service will be managed directly by Starlink.
The network uses infrastructure of low-Earth orbit, known as LEO, which allows for reducing the response time between sending and receiving information. This allows users to access services that require a stable connection.
Impact on Passenger Experience and Capabilities
Volaris expects users to access services that need a stable connection, including:
- Streaming platforms.
- Messaging applications.
- Videocalls.
- Online music streaming and work tools.
The Indigo Partners Global Connectivity Strategy
The Volaris rollout is part of an initiative by Indigo Partners, a firm that seeks to implement Starlink connectivity in the airlines that make up its portfolio.
| Airline | Region |
|---|---|
| Frontier Airlines | United States |
| Wizz Air | Europe |
| JetSMART | South America |
| Cebu Pacific | Philippines |
Technical Comparison: LEO vs. GEO Satellites
The satellite network uses low-orbit infrastructure, known as LEO, which allows for reducing the response time between sending and receiving information. This results in a connection that allows users to access services that need a stable connection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Starlink be available on all Volaris flights?
Yes, Volaris intends to equip its entire fleet of more than 150 Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft with the technology.
Who manages the internet connection?
The system is administered directly by Starlink.
Which other airlines are using this specific Starlink rollout?
Frontier, Wizz Air, JetSMART, and Cebu Pacific are all part of the Indigo Partners initiative.