American Airlines is significantly expanding its partnership with SpaceX, announcing plans to install Starlink satellite internet across its entire mainline fleet of more than 1,030 aircraft. The expansion more than doubles its original commitment.
The airline previously announced plans to equip just over 500 Airbus narrowbody aircraft with Starlink. The expanded agreement now includes more than 400 Boeing narrowbody jets and over 130 widebody aircraft, bringing high-speed internet to passengers across its domestic and international network.
Installations are scheduled to begin in early 2027, with American aiming to operate one of the world’s largest Starlink-connected fleets.
Full fleet. Full speed. Full connection. ✈️ We’re bringing Starlink to our entire mainline fleet, and will be one of the world’s largest Starlink-connected airlines. With more than 1,000 aircraft planned for installation beginning in 2027, we’re taking connectivity to new heights. 📶 Learn more: https://t.co/x7WFxV3cLI
— americanair (@AmericanAir) October 8, 2026
The rollout will use Starlink’s new Performance Aero Terminal, which is capable of delivering speeds of up to 1 Gbps per terminal.
“Our customers have told us that dependable connectivity can make a meaningful difference in how they spend their time in the air,” said American’s Chief Customer Officer Heather Garboden.
The expansion represents another major win for SpaceX, which has already secured agreements with United Airlines, Southwest Airlines, WestJet, Lufthansa, Air France, and just yesterday, KLM. With American’s expanded commitment, Starlink now has deals with three of the four largest U.S. airlines, leaving Delta as the only holdout.
Before selecting Starlink, American had been looking into Amazon Leo, formerly known as Project Kuiper, as part of a broader effort to modernize its in-flight entertainment and connectivity offerings.
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