Lufthansa launches Starlink Wi-Fi, plans fleetwide rollout by 2029

Lufthansa has launched its new Starlink-powered high-speed Wi-Fi service, with the first equipped aircraft taking to the skies on Aug. 19.

An Airbus A320neo registered as D-AINM became the first aircraft across the Lufthansa Group fleet to feature the new connectivity service, which the airline says can deliver internet speeds that are, in many cases, faster than passengers' connections at home or in the office.

The inaugural flight departed Frankfurt for Rome at 12:15 p.m. as LH234. At an altitude of 10,000 metres, Lufthansa Airlines CEO Jens Ritter activated the system.

The aircraft, nicknamed “November Mike,” will now operate scheduled flights with the new technology.

“We are investing more than ever in our guests: in new aircraft, new services, greater choice on board and, of course, state-of-the-art and innovative technology. With Starlink, we will offer the fastest connectivity from take-off to landing, over oceans and deserts, and on short- and long-haul routes. That, too, is premium—and that is what Lufthansa stands for. The introduction of this service marks another milestone in the modernization of Lufthansa,” Ritter said in a press release

The rollout is expected to accelerate in the coming months, with up to 10 additional A320-family aircraft operated by Lufthansa and Lufthansa City Airlines scheduled to receive the high-speed internet service before the end of 2026.

850 aircraft with Starlink by 2029

Starlink equipment will primarily be installed at Lufthansa Technik in Berlin, with the work taking place during scheduled downtime for technical checks.

Other Lufthansa Group airlines are also expected to begin receiving the technology.

Lufthansa Group plans to equip approximately 850 aircraft across its airlines with Starlink by 2029, which the company says will make it the largest airline group in Europe to offer the high-speed internet service.

The new “Lufthansa Group Wi-Fi” allows passengers to browse the internet and access a selection of eJournals.

The portal is also expected to eventually provide information and services related to passengers' flights.

Mastercard is sponsoring Lufthansa Group Wi-Fi after previously partnering with the airline on its FlyNet service.

Access to the new Wi-Fi service will be free for all Miles & More members and Travel ID users, regardless of travel class.

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