![‘Teacher’s Pet’ – Barbara Crampton & Luke Barnett Star in High School Thriller [Images]](https://bloody-disgusting.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/TP_STILLS_3-1024x436.jpg)
![Konami Reveals ‘Silent Hill’ Remake Currently in Development From Bloober Team! [Watch]](https://bloody-disgusting.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/silenthill.jpg)
![Where the Boys Are [BULL DURHAM]](https://jonathanrosenbaum.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/bull-durham.jpg)
-0-6-screenshot.png?width=1920&height=1920&fit=bounds&quality=70&format=jpg&auto=webp#)
.jpg)
Air New Zealand commences trial of Starlink inflight Wi-Fi
Air New Zealand has launched a trial of SpaceX’s Starlink inflight connectivity service as it assesses whether to bring the Ku-band Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite-powered solution to its domestic fleet. The Starlink hardware has been fitted to a single Airbus A320 (ZK OXE). An ATR 72-600 turboprop will join the trial later this month.... The post Air New Zealand commences trial of Starlink inflight Wi-Fi appeared first on Runway Girl.
Air New Zealand has launched a trial of SpaceX’s Starlink inflight connectivity service as it assesses whether to bring the Ku-band Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite-powered solution to its domestic fleet.
The Starlink hardware has been fitted to a single Airbus A320 (ZK OXE). An ATR 72-600 turboprop will join the trial later this month. Passengers who find themselves on either aircraft will be able to avail of free Wi-Fi.
“Air New Zealand is currently in the test phase of Starlink’s onboard connectivity, seeking to understand how it performs in real-world conditions and to assess customer feedback,” the airline says in a statement.
The inclusion of an ATR turboprop in the carrier’s Starlink IFC pilot program will be a global first.
“Being the first airline in the world to trial Wi-Fi on a turboprop aircraft is a proud moment for us. Our goal is to explore the potential of this technology and understand how it can enhance customer journeys,” says Air New Zealand chief digital officer Nikhil Ravishankar.
In January, ATR announced that EASA-approved design organization PMV Engineering had developed the necessary modifications for certifying the Starlink phased array antenna terminal for ATR turboprops, with the kit now available as a retrofit option on both the ATR 72-500 and –600 for all ATR operators through a supplemental type certificate (STC).
A US FAA-approved STC for the ATR 72-500 and -600 is pending, according to SpaceX’s Starlink Aviation web site.
Should Air New Zealand’s test of Starlink aboard an A320 and ATR 72-600 prove successful, the carrier has vowed to roll out Starlink-powered Internet on other aircraft in its domestic fleet this year.
Ravishankar said Air New Zealand looks forward to hearing from customers as they try the complimentary Wi-Fi. “Their feedback will help guide our decision-making as we consider connectivity options for our domestic fleet.”
Related Articles:
- Starlink takes flight on ATR 72-600 turboprop as ANZ preps for trial
- Quvia sees aero following cruise with multiple connectivity providers
- Air New Zealand Skynest debut: delayed but definitely not forgotten
The post Air New Zealand commences trial of Starlink inflight Wi-Fi appeared first on Runway Girl.
