Norwegian Air Shuttle will not install Starlink Wi-Fi on its aircraft for now, CEO Geir Karlsen told Reuters on Friday. The budget carrier currently offers a paid inflight internet service from another provider and sees no immediate need to switch.
Karlsen explained that Starlink Wi-Fi does not align with the business model of low-cost airlines. “As far as I know, if you install Starlink, you’re not able to charge for the use toward your passengers,” he said. For budget carriers like Norwegian, ancillary revenue—from baggage fees, seat selection, and paid Wi-Fi—is essential to offset rock-bottom ticket prices.
This stance contrasts with major full-service airlines such as Lufthansa and Qatar Airways, which are adopting Starlink Wi-Fi as a premium passenger amenity. These carriers can absorb costs or bundle connectivity into fares. Budget airlines, however, rely on direct customer payments to make such services profitable.
Karlsen also noted that Starlink Wi-Fi is not yet certified for use on the Boeing 737, the backbone of Norwegian’s fleet. He added that certification may come in the future, but even then, revenue limitations remain a barrier.
Norwegian is not alone in its hesitation. Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary recently clashed publicly with Elon Musk over Starlink Wi-Fi, estimating it would cost his airline up to $250 million annually. Similarly, EasyJet said in January it was exploring a deal but found “the economics” unworkable at current terms.
In summary, while Starlink Wi-Fi gains traction among legacy carriers, its value proposition falls short for budget airlines. Without the ability to monetize the service directly—and amid certification delays—low-cost carriers like Norwegian Air Shuttle are opting to stick with existing, revenue-generating alternatives.
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