▲ Korean Air Co. crew members demonstrate Starlink-powered in-flight Wi-Fi in this photo provided by the airline on Sept. 11, 2026. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

By Kim Eun-jung

SEOUL, Sept. 11 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's largest airline, Korean Air Co., said Friday it will begin offering free in-flight Wi-Fi service powered by Starlink on select flights starting next week.

The complimentary service will begin Tuesday on four newly retrofitted widebody aircraft -- three Airbus A350-900s and one Boeing 777-300ER.

The aircraft will operate on medium- and long-haul routes to the Americas, Europe and Southeast Asia, as well as key short-haul routes.

Korean Air said it plans to gradually expand Starlink connectivity across its operating fleet by the end of 2027.

Starlink, operated by U.S. space company SpaceX, uses a network of low-Earth-orbit satellites to provide high-speed internet connectivity.

The launch will make Korean Air the first full-service carrier in East Asia to introduce Starlink connectivity, marking an initial step in its broader fleet modernization efforts ahead of its integration with Asiana Airlines.

Asiana Airlines, which is set to be integrated with Korean Air, will also introduce free Starlink-powered Wi-Fi on select flights.

The high-speed connection will support bandwidth-intensive activities, such as video streaming, though voice and video calls will remain restricted to maintain cabin comfort.

Aircraft awaiting Starlink installation will continue to offer Korean Air's existing paid Wi-Fi service during the transition.

The service will initially be available on nine Airbus A350-900s and one A330-300, with installation of the necessary communications equipment scheduled to be completed this month.

Asiana plans to gradually expand the service across its fleet, starting with its remaining A350-900 and A330-300 aircraft.

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