SpaceX has unveiled a new service from Starlink, allowing it to now provide its services to private jets via in-flight Wi-Fi. The expected launch for the service will be around mid-2023, which will allow its users to download speeds of up to 350 Mbps.
With the availability of the internet on board while in the air, its users will be able to do things like stream videos, play online games, make video calls, use a virtual private network, and other high data rate activities, as mentioned in CNET.
Starlink Services
The new service for private jets will not be cheap, but provided that it's for private jets, that is already to be expected. The service plan will charge $150,000 for the hardware alone that is needed to connect a jet to Starlink. The monthly subscriptions will be $12,500 a month or $25,000 if you want unlimited data.
In early 2022, Starlink made a deal with Hawaiian Airlines, offering free Wi-Fi for its passengers whose flights are across the Pacific, the continental US, Asia, and Australia. Although, the internet provider is not limited to aviation vehicles.
SpaceX is also offering Starlink satellite internet services to RVs. The target market would be people who are always on the road or those who like camping. It will cost $135 a month, which is $25 more than the internet provider's residential services. Of course, users can always opt for the one-time payment, which costs $599.
Businesses can purchase a package that is tailored for business purposes, on the other hand. It offers twice the antenna capability as opposed to the residential service, including faster internet speeds. Of course, it will also cost more than residential internet services. Monthly payments cost $500, or they could opt for a one-time payment of $2,500.
Of course, those who plan to subscribe to Starlink internet services should check if it's available in their area. People may do so by entering their address on the Starlink website. In order to reserve a spot for their service, you must pre-order to reserve a spot for $99, which could be refunded.
Starlink Satellite
Starlink has a growing network of private satellites orbiting the Earth, with around 2,000 low Earth orbit satellites. It uses fiber optics to transmit data, as opposed to cable technology. The internet service's ground stations broadcast signals to the satellites in orbit, which in turn relays the data back to its users.
Their satellite system uses radio signals through the vacuum of space, according to Tech Target. Since the LEO satellites are only 300 miles above ground, their geostationary orbit is shortened, which in turn reduces latency levels with internet speeds.
Aside from unlimited data, Starlink also offers high internet speeds that deliver up to 150 Mbps. Starlink's fastest median download speed record was recorded in the first quarter of 2022. The records were 160 Mbps in Lithuania, 91 Mbps in the US, 97 Mbps in Canada, and 124 Mbps in Australia.
SpaceX is already planning on expanding its global and remote satellite coverage. They will do this by launching around 40,000 more satellites into orbit in the near future.
Related: Starlink Users Are Suddenly Receiving Up to 50% Lower Monthly Subscription Fees
