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The partnership aims to set a new benchmark in the Canadian airline industry by integrating Starlink’s inflight connectivity. This will allow passengers to live-stream videos and engage in online gaming during their flights with internet speeds comparable to those available at home.
The rollout of this technology will begin with WestJet’s narrowbody fleet (Boeing 737s) by the end of 2024, with plans to complete the installation on all narrowbody aircraft by the end of 2025. The wide-body aircraft (Boeing 787) will be upgraded by 2026.
In addition to high-speed internet, WestJet and TELUS will soon introduce exclusive benefits and perks for WestJet Rewards members and TELUS customers. The partnership is expected to add value to WestJet passengers on the ground and in the air. This partnership aspect sounds similar to the Air Canada and Bell partnership.
Implementing Starlink’s technology will make WestJet the first commercial Boeing 737 airline in North America to offer such advanced inflight connectivity. Starlink’s Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite network significantly improves latency, bandwidth, coverage, and scalability, making it a superior choice for inflight internet compared to geostationary satellites used by traditional providers.
In mid-2024, SpaceX’s Starlink network comprised approximately 6,000 low-earth orbit (LEO) satellites. Airlines in North America that have already adopted Starlink’s technology include Hawaiian Airlines, JSX, and now WestJet. Hawaiian Airlines announced its plans to offer free Starlink internet on its transpacific flights, aiming to provide passengers with high-speed connectivity.
With airlines’ growing adoption of Starlink, passengers can look forward to a more connected and enjoyable inflight experience, setting a new standard for air travel.
Title Image Credit: CNW Group/WESTJET
