SpaceX to Launch In-Flight Internet Service via Starlink

Preparing Wi-Fi Service Using Low Earth Orbit Satellites
Competitors in Satellite Communication Networks Concerned About Satellite Collisions

[Image source=AP Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Hyunwoo Lee] The U.S. private space company SpaceX announced plans to soon launch in-flight WiFi internet service using its small low Earth orbit satellite communication network, the Starlink system. Although the internet speed is expected to be significantly faster than existing services from other companies, competitors are opposing the plan, citing risks of Starlink satellites colliding with their own satellites.

According to foreign media such as CNBC on the 10th (local time), Jonathan Hofeller, Vice President of SpaceX, stated at an aviation industry forum the day before that they are "preparing to launch in-flight WiFi internet service using the small low Earth orbit satellite communication network, Starlink," and that they are "in talks with several airlines." However, he did not disclose a specific service launch schedule, only mentioning that it would be possible "soon."

In-flight internet service has been partially provided by existing satellite broadband service providers such as ViaSat and Intelsat, but the internet speed has been evaluated as very slow. These companies' satellites are positioned at quite high altitudes and are limited in number, making it difficult to establish communication networks with aircraft.

In contrast, SpaceX has launched about 1,800 ultra-small low Earth orbit satellites so far and plans to launch about 2,600 more, creating a satellite network of approximately 4,400 satellites that it claims will enable ultra-high-speed WiFi service worldwide. Positioned at lower orbits than other companies' satellites and in greater numbers, the internet speed is expected to be much faster. SpaceX has stated that internet speeds of 100M to 200Mbps will be possible.

Meanwhile, other satellite broadband service providers have expressed dissatisfaction and are trying to check SpaceX's service launch plans. Along with ViaSat, another satellite broadband service provider, OneWeb, has protested to the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) since April, claiming that the Starlink system could significantly interfere with other companies' satellite services and poses a high risk of collision with other satellites. However, the FCC is reportedly not accepting these complaints.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.