February 16, 2025
ATR Introduces Starlink High-Speed Internet for its Regional Aircraft

ATR Introduces Starlink High-Speed Internet for its Regional Aircraft

Starlink high-speed internet connectivity has now been approved by EASA for ATR 72 regional aircraft, with Air New Zealand set to become the launch customer.
An ATR aircraft in flight.
Photo Credit: ATR

Regional aircraft manufacturer ATR is improving passenger experience by introducing Starlink high-speed internet connectivity across its aircraft fleet.

Following successful test flights on the ATR 72-600 and obtaining EASA certification, the company is set to transform regional air travel connectivity.

Air New Zealand as Launch Customer


Air New Zealand will be the first airline to implement this groundbreaking technology, planning to introduce Starlink-enabled internet on domestic flights starting in 2025.

PMV Engineering played a crucial role in developing the necessary modifications. They secured a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) that allows the Starlink aeroterminal to be retrofitted on ATR 72-500 and 72-600 aircraft.

Starlink, SpaceX’s innovative satellite constellation using low-Earth orbit technology, promises to deliver broadband internet that supports streaming, online gaming, and video calls.

This development enables ATR operators to provide passengers with internet experiences comparable to those on the ground, marking a significant leap in regional aviation connectivity.

Stakeholder Comments


Nikhil Ravishankar, Chief Digital Officer at Air New Zealand, expressed enthusiasm about the project.

“We’re constantly seeking innovative technologies to enhance customer experiences. Maintaining seamless internet connectivity will fundamentally transform travel. Collaborating with ATR and PMV Engineering has been instrumental in bringing this vision to reality.”

Eric Sperazza from PMV Engineering highlighted the significance of their contribution. “We’re honoured to be the providers of such a revolutionary technology onboard ATR aircraft. We are sharing our expertise and solution-led approach to open up new opportunities for ATR, its customers and their passengers.”

Daniel Cuchet, Senior Vice-President Engineering at ATR, emphasized the strategic importance of this development. “Starlink inaugurates a new era for ATR, offering unprecedented comfort and passenger experience in the regional market. This achievement reflects our commitment to innovation and meeting evolving customer expectations.”

Advantages for Flight Operations


Beyond passenger benefits, the system offers additional advantages for flight operations. Pilots can now connect to aviation weather services, potentially enhancing flight safety through more informed decision making.

The antenna’s compact design ensures optimal aerodynamic performance on the ATR platform.

ATR’s comprehensive cabin solutions include USB sockets, In-Flight Entertainment systems, and the new high speed internet connectivity, which is part of the ATR HighLine collection.

These features are likely to significantly interest airlines worldwide. Markets like Japan, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the United States show particular promise. Market demand for in-flight connectivity in these regions is rapidly growing.

This innovative approach demonstrates ATR’s dedication to pushing technological boundaries and creating more connected, comfortable regional travel experiences.

Starlink delivers high-speed, low-latency internet to users all over the world. As the world’s first and largest satellite constellation using a low Earth orbit, Starlink delivers broadband internet capable of supporting streaming, online gaming, video calls and more.

Starlink is engineered and operated by SpaceX. As the world’s leading provider of launch services, SpaceX is leveraging its deep experience with both spacecraft and on-orbit operations to deploy the world’s most advanced broadband internet system.

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