Alaska Airlines launches Starlink Wi-Fi on first Embraer E175 jets

Alaska Airlines announced on Monday the launch of its first Starlink-enabled Wi-Fi flights, following the completion of installations on four Embraer E175 regional jets.

The new satellite-based system is designed to deliver faster internet speeds and lower latency for passengers, supporting activities such as streaming, social media, and email. Alaska plans to begin adding Starlink to its Boeing 737 fleet next year, with a full rollout expected by 2027.

Alaska Air Group accelerated its Starlink implementation schedule after the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) granted certification ahead of projections. The carrier had initially planned its first Starlink installation for 2026.

Hawaiian Airlines, which Alaska acquired last year, became the first major airline to deploy Starlink on its Airbus fleet in 2024. United Airlines has fitted Starlink to regional and mainline aircraft, targeting up to 15 Boeing 737-800 installations per month.

Each aircraft model and variant requires separate FAA approval for Wi-Fi systems, which can affect deployment timelines across fleets.

Starlink’s entry into airline connectivity has prompted major US carriers to evaluate satellite solutions as passenger demand for reliable in-flight internet grows.

Alaska’s Embraer E175s operate on regional routes, and the addition of high-capacity Wi-Fi is positioned to support route competitiveness and operational flexibility.

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