Prime Highlight
- SpaceX purchased $2.6 billion in wireless spectrum licenses from EchoStar to boost Starlink’s global network capacity and support its “direct-to-cell” satellite expansion.
- Starlink secured a partnership with International Airlines Group (IAG) to provide in-flight internet on over 500 aircraft, strengthening its position in aviation connectivity.
Key Facts
- Starlink now serves 8 million customers in 150 countries, up from 6 million in June.
- The new spectrum deal follows a $17 billion purchase from EchoStar in September, marking SpaceX’s continued investment in satellite infrastructure.
Background
SpaceX is growing its Starlink satellite internet business. It bought $2.6 billion more in wireless spectrum licenses from EchoStar. This follows a $17 billion spectrum deal in September and will help Starlink improve its network capacity and service reach.
Starlink now serves 8 million customers worldwide, up from 6 million in June, reaching users in 150 countries. On Thursday, the company also revealed a major airline partnership with International Airlines Group (IAG), which includes British Airways, Iberia, and Aer Lingus. Under the deal, more than 500 aircraft will be equipped with Starlink in-flight internet starting in 2026, offering passengers high-speed Wi-Fi on both short- and long-haul routes.
The newly acquired EchoStar spectrum will support Starlink’s “direct-to-cell” satellite constellation, enabling T-Mobile customers to access satellite-based 5G connectivity. EchoStar began selling off its spectrum holdings earlier this year following regulatory pressure from the FCC and the Trump administration, which reportedly urged the company to offload its licenses.
SpaceX has been a major buyer; AT&T also bought $23 billion worth of EchoStar licenses in August.
Starlink’s presence in aviation has grown rapidly since 2022. It started with private jets and as of today, you can find Starlink on board airlines like Hawaiian Airlines, United Airlines, and Qatar Airways. With the new IAG deal, SpaceX is going beyond doubt that Starlink is the premier provider of global satellite internet and in-flight connectivity.
