Qatar Airways has completed its inaugural flight and is equipped with internet service powered by Starlink’s satellite technology. The first flight utilizing this Starlink-backed internet took place on October 22, traveling from Doha to London. With this launch, Qatar Airways becomes the first airline in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region to offer high-speed internet through Starlink on board its flights.

Qatar Airways’ Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, said, “We are thrilled to launch our first Starlink-equipped flight, proving once again why Qatar Airways is at the forefront of the aviation industry.

“This milestone, paired with our commitment to rapidly roll-out Starlink across our entire modern fleet, demonstrates our relentless pursuit of offering passengers an in-flight experience that transcends the constraints of traditional air travel.

“By providing Starlink reliable, seamless internet on board, we are connecting people to the things they love the most even at 35,000 feet, making every journey with us a memorable one.”

Qatar Airways plans to exceed its initial goal of equipping three aircraft with Starlink’s internet service by upgrading 12 Boeing 777-300s by the end of 2024. By the summer of 2025, all 64 Boeing 777s in its fleet will offer this service, which will be provided free of charge to passengers.

“Overtime you’ll find it just gets better and better. This is the minimum and it only gets better from here,” said SpaceX CEO Elon Musk.