Seoul: South Korea's largest airline, Korean Air Co., announced it will begin offering free in-flight Wi-Fi service powered by Starlink on select flights starting next week. The complimentary service is set to launch on Tuesday across four newly retrofitted widebody aircraft, including three Airbus A350-900s and one Boeing 777-300ER. These aircraft will serve medium- and long-haul routes to the Americas, Europe, and Southeast Asia, as well as key short-haul routes.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Korean Air plans to gradually expand Starlink connectivity across its operating fleet by the end of 2027. Starlink, operated by U.S. space company SpaceX, utilizes a network of low-Earth-orbit satellites to provide high-speed internet connectivity. This initiative will make Korean Air the first full-service carrier in East Asia to introduce Starlink connectivity, marking a significant step in its fleet modernization efforts ahead of its integration with Asiana Airlines.
Asiana Airlines, which is set to merge with Korean Air, will also offer free Starlink-powered Wi-Fi on select flights. The high-speed connection will support bandwidth-intensive activities such as video streaming, although voice and video calls will remain restricted to maintain cabin comfort. Aircraft awaiting Starlink installation will continue to provide Korean Air's existing paid Wi-Fi service during the transition.
The service will initially be available on nine Airbus A350-900s and one A330-300, with the installation of the necessary communications equipment expected to be completed this month. Asiana plans to gradually extend the service across its fleet, beginning with its remaining A350-900 and A330-300 aircraft.