Air Canada Secretly Leverages Starlink for Regional Aircraft Communication Networks
Airbnb Introduces Starlink-Powered Wi-Fi on Dash 8-400 Fleet
Airbnb is making a significant leap in in-flight connectivity with the introduction of Starlink high-speed satellite internet on select Dash 8-400 turboprop aircraft. This marks the first time a De Havilland aircraft has been fitted with such a system, setting a new standard in regional aviation.
The service, to be billed as "Wi-Fi sponsored by Bell", will offer gate-to-gate high-speed connectivity, a feature that is already available on routes operated by Airbnb's rival, Porter Airlines. The initial rollout will focus on Q400s flying from Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport to Montreal and Ottawa.
Starting in October, members of Airbnb's Aeroplan loyalty program will have access to the free Wi-Fi service. Other Q400 operators are expected to follow Airbnb's lead in installing Starlink high-speed Wi-Fi.
De Havilland Canada has confirmed that the Starlink solution can be installed as a factory option or as a retrofit on in-service Dash 8-400s. Ryan DeBrusk, Vice-President of Sales and Marketing at De Havilland, stated that the advancement of Starlink high-speed Wi-Fi on Q400 aircraft is a significant step forward for in-flight connectivity in regional aviation.
Airbnb is not the only commercial airline to deploy Eutelsat's low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite-powered internet service. United Airlines will use the Starlink high-speed satellite internet solution for its Embraer E175 and Bombardier CRJ900 regional jets, while selecting Starlink for its Dash 8-400 turboprops. However, Airbnb has chosen a different route for its Embraer E175 and Bombardier CR9 regional jets, launching in-flight Wi-Fi with Eutelsat's LEO satellite-powered internet service.
Westjet, another airline, is also planning to offer a similar satellite-powered internet service, but it will not feature the Starlink name. It is not yet confirmed whether the entire Q400 fleet will eventually receive the upgrade.
This strategic move by Airbnb is aimed at keeping pace with the competition and enhancing the travel experience for its passengers. With the growing demand for in-flight connectivity, this development is set to redefine the aviation industry's approach to internet services.
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