Southwest Airlines has officially commenced the rollout of high-speed satellite internet, completing its first commercial flight equipped with SpaceX’s Starlink technology on June 22, 2026. The initial installation was verified on a Boeing 737-800, registered as N8543Z, which operated a service between Dallas-Love Field and Albuquerque.
This deployment follows a formal agreement established between the carrier and SpaceX earlier this year. The service utilizes a constellation of low-Earth orbit satellites designed to provide consistent broadband connectivity for aircraft in flight. Southwest leadership confirmed that this integration is a primary fleet objective for the remainder of the calendar year.
Operational plans involve equipping 300 aircraft with the necessary terminals by the end of 2026. A remaining portion of the fleet, totaling approximately 500 units, is slated for potential future installation. Members of the carrier’s Rapid Rewards loyalty program will receive complimentary access to the new service. The move places Southwest alongside other major carriers actively integrating satellite-based broadband to meet rising passenger demand for robust connectivity at cruising altitude.