ATR, the global leader in regional aircraft manufacturing, has achieved a significant milestone with the certification of Starlink high-speed internet for its ATR 72 aircraft by EASA.
This development brings a new level of connectivity to regional air travel, ensuring passengers can enjoy a seamless internet experience akin to their home networks while in the skies.
The Starlink system, engineered by SpaceX, leverages a low-Earth orbit satellite constellation to provide broadband internet capable of supporting streaming, gaming, video calls, and more. This revolutionary technology has been successfully tested on ATR’s 72-600 aircraft, paving the way for its retrofit availability on ATR 72-500 and 72-600 models through a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) developed by PMV Engineering.
Air New Zealand Takes the Lead
Air New Zealand is set to be the launch customer for Starlink-equipped ATR aircraft, with plans to introduce the service on its domestic routes in 2025. According to Nikhil Ravishankar, Chief Digital Officer at Air New Zealand, “maintaining seamless internet connectivity will transform the travel experience for customers.” This innovative move aligns with the airline’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology to enhance passenger satisfaction.
Enhanced Travel and Safety Features
In addition to providing passengers with unmatched internet connectivity, the system offers benefits for flight operations. Pilots will gain access to real-time aviation weather services, enabling safer and more informed decision-making during flights. The compact antenna design, optimized for the ATR’s aerodynamic profile, ensures minimal impact on the aircraft’s performance.
Global Impact on Regional Air Travel
The introduction of Starlink on ATR aircraft is expected to generate strong interest across global markets, including Europe, the United States, Asia-Pacific, and Japan, where the demand for in-flight connectivity continues to rise. As part of its HighLine collection, ATR also offers complementary high-end cabin solutions, including USB sockets at every seat and in-flight entertainment systems, creating a fully connected cabin experience.
Collaboration Driving Innovation
This achievement highlights ATR’s dedication to meeting evolving passenger expectations while staying ahead of industry trends. Daniel Cuchet, Senior Vice-President Engineering at ATR, emphasized the company’s vision of excellence and innovation: “Starlink opens up a new era for ATR, offering unparalleled levels of comfort and passenger experience in the regional market.”
As ATR operators worldwide prepare to adopt this transformative technology, the future of regional air travel promises to be more connected and convenient than ever.
