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Ryanair rules out equipping planes with Musk's Starlink internet

Published by Global Banking & Finance Review

Posted on January 14, 2026

1 min read

· Last updated: January 19, 2026

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Ryanair rules out equipping planes with Musk's Starlink internet
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BRUSSELS, Jan 14 (Reuters) - Ryanair on Wednesday ruled out equipping its jets with Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite internet service, citing the impact of fuel costs from drag caused by the antenna and

Ryanair Decides Against Installing Musk's Starlink on Aircraft

Ryanair's Decision on Starlink Installation

BRUSSELS, Jan 14 (Reuters) - Ryanair on Wednesday ruled out equipping its jets with Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite internet service, citing the impact of fuel costs from drag caused by the antenna and the short length of its flights.

Comparison with Competitors

Rival Lufthansa on Tuesday announced a deal to install Starlink on its aircraft and Scandinavian airline SAS last year picked the provider, saying the aerodynamic drag of the system was lower than rivals.

CEO's Insights on Fuel Penalty

"You need to put antenna on fuselage it comes with a 2% fuel penalty because of the weight and drag," Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary told Reuters. "We don't think our passengers are willing to pay for WiFi for an average 1-hour flight."

(Reporting by Julia Payne; Writing by Conor Humphries; Editing by Padraic Halpin)

Key Takeaways

  • Ryanair will not install Starlink on its planes.
  • Fuel costs and flight duration are key factors.
  • Lufthansa and SAS have opted for Starlink.
  • CEO cites a 2% fuel penalty from antenna drag.
  • Passengers unlikely to pay for short-flight WiFi.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Starlink?
Starlink is a satellite internet constellation developed by SpaceX, providing high-speed internet access globally, especially in remote areas.
What is aerodynamic drag?
Aerodynamic drag is the resistance experienced by an object moving through air, which can affect fuel efficiency in aircraft.
What is WiFi in aviation?
WiFi in aviation refers to wireless internet connectivity provided on aircraft, allowing passengers to access the internet during flights.
What is a fuel penalty?
A fuel penalty refers to the additional fuel consumption caused by design features, such as antennas, that increase drag on an aircraft.
What is the role of an airline CEO?
An airline CEO is responsible for the overall management and strategic direction of the airline, including operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.

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