The first aircraft enters service this summer as Southwest Starlink WiFi deployment accelerates across the fleet with 300 installations planned.
Southwest Starlink WiFi deployment
Southwest Airlines has confirmed that its Starlink WiFi upgrade will begin rolling out in summer 2026, with the first equipped aircraft entering service in the coming months.
And the speed and scale are notable.
More than 300 aircraft are scheduled to be fitted with Starlink by the end of 2026, representing a large-scale connectivity deployment across the major US carrier fleet. Other carriers, such as United, Air France, Lufthansa Group, and British Airways, are also installing low-Earth-orbit systems.
According to the airline’s official announcement, the rollout is part of a broader plan to upgrade all aircraft with high-speed Starlink Wifi.
The system is delivered via Starlink, engineered by SpaceX. With a constellation of more than 9,000 satellites orbiting closer to Earth, Starlink is designed to deliver reliable, high-speed broadband capable of supporting streaming, online gaming, video calls and large file uploads.
Southwest says passengers will be able to stream high-definition content, watch live sport, upload files, collaborate in real time and stay connected throughout their journey.
The first aircraft fitted with Southwest Starlink WiFi will enter service in summer 2026, with installations accelerating across the fleet through the year. By year end, more than 300 aircraft are expected to be connected.
Free WiFi supported by T-Mobile partnership
Southwest claims it is currently the largest US airline to offer free WiFi fleetwide to its loyalty members, made possible through its partnership with T-Mobile.
Free WiFi has been a huge hit with our Rapid Rewards Members. Starlink delivers that at-home experience in the air, giving Customers the ability to stream their favourite shows from any platform, watch live sports, download music, play games, work, and connect with loved ones from takeoff to landing.
Southwest
Rapid Rewards membership is free to join, allowing customers to sign up and access onboard connectivity on designated aircraft. The introduction of Southwest Starlink WiFi builds on that existing benefit, upgrading the underlying satellite infrastructure while maintaining free access for members.
Southwest operates across 118 airports in 11 countries and plans to integrate Starlink across its network as installations progress.
The connectivity upgrade sits alongside wider cabin updates, including assigned and premium seating, new RECARO seats, in-seat power at every seat, larger overhead bins and refinements to boarding procedures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Southwest Starlink WiFi will begin rolling out in summer 2026, with the first equipped aircraft entering service during the season and installations continuing through the year.
More than 300 aircraft are scheduled to receive Southwest Starlink WiFi by the end of 2026 as part of the airline’s fleet upgrade plan.
Southwest Starlink WiFi will be available free to Rapid Rewards members, and the loyalty programme is free to join.
Southwest Starlink WiFi is designed to deliver reliable, high-speed connectivity capable of supporting streaming, online gaming, video calls and large file uploads.
Southwest Starlink WiFi will be installed progressively across the fleet, with the airline planning to upgrade all aircraft over time.
Southwest Starlink WiFi uses low-Earth-orbit satellite technology, which is designed to provide faster, more reliable connectivity than traditional satellite systems.
You do not need to be a frequent flyer, but you must be a Rapid Rewards member to access Southwest Starlink WiFi for free, and membership costs nothing to join.
