Until recently, Starlink offered only stationary terminals for connecting to satellite communication with the Internet. In practice, it turned out that they are able to work, for example, in trains, even Ukrzaliznytsia.
Now the company is launching a new Starlink Aviation service. It involves installing an antenna on board the plane, which will allow you to use the Internet even during the flight. According to the company, access will be global and should not depend on where exactly the aircraft is, over land or water. It will also work on the ground, during takeoff or landing… as long as there is clear sky above the receiver itself.
As for speed indicators, the declared numbers are really good:
Starlink can deliver up to 350 Mbps [Megabits per second] to each plane, enabling all passengers to access streaming-capable internet at the same time. With latency as low as 20 ms [milliseconds], passengers can engage in activities previously not functional in flight, including video calls, online gaming, virtual private networks and other high data rate activities.
The terminals are currently designed for installation on the following aircraft: ERJ-135, ERJ-145, G650, G550, Falcon 2000, G450, Challenger 300, Challenger 350, Global Express, Global 5000, Global 6000 and Global 7500. These are small private jets and jets with a capacity of up to 100 seats. But, of course, this list will be supplemented later.
Internet in airplanes will feel same as if you were accessing Internet at home! https://t.co/Mfl2ixYnJH
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) October 19, 2022
The cost of such a service will be considerable. The Starlink Aviation Kit itself will cost $150,000, not including installation (which can also be done by the owner’s current service company). This price includes Aero Terminal and two access points. Further Internet connection will cost from $12,500 to $25,000 per month.
You can pre-order the terminal with a deposit of $5,000 right now. In the following months, the company should contact the customer to clarify the details. The terminals will begin to be delivered in 2023.
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