Virgin Atlantic and Boeing have signed an agreement to upgrade the airline’s Boeing 787 Dreamliner fleet, enabling passengers to enjoy high-speed, streaming-quality internet on board. The new connectivity project was announced at the MRO Europe event in London on October 15.
The upgrades will include the installation of a new aerodynamic antenna shroud (the Boeing Aerodynamic Shroud) designed to house Electronically Steered Array (ESA) antennas. This advanced system supports connectivity through Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and multi-orbit satellite networks, ensuring stable and fast in-flight internet access.
“Partnering with Boeing to bring Starlink’s next-generation connectivity to our Dreamliner fleet is another important step in creating a ‘home away from home’ experience for every customer,” said Corneel Koster, Chief Customer and Operating Officer at Virgin Atlantic. “Together, we’re transforming how our customers stay connected in the skies – with low latency and super high-speed Wi-Fi, often better than what most customers experience on the ground.”
Boeing emphasized that the collaboration represents a key milestone in applying new satellite technologies. “We’re proud to provide our OEM-backed engineering expertise and hardware that will enable Virgin Atlantic to bring faster, more reliable connectivity to their 787 Dreamliner fleet,” said Doug Backhus, Vice President of Cabin, Modifications and Maintenance at Boeing Global Services.
Virgin Atlantic, which this year celebrates more than four decades of operations, continues to invest in modernization and digital innovation to enhance the passenger experience. The airline operates one of the youngest and most fuel-efficient fleets in the industry, with an average aircraft age of less than seven years. Following the introduction of the Airbus A330-900neo in 2022, Virgin Atlantic aims to transition to a 100% next-generation fleet by 2028. The new Wi-Fi technology marks another step in raising service standards across its long-haul network.
