Air New Zealand is a step closer to bringing SpaceX’s Ku-band Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite-supported Starlink inflight connectivity service to its ATR 72-600 turboprops after ATR revealed successful test flights have been carried out aboard the aircraft type, and the IFC solution has been certified by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA).
The news comes as de Havilland is working to bring Starlink to its Q400 turboprops (possibly to support Air Canada, though this has neither been announced nor confirmed.) SpaceX’s dedicated Starlink Aviation web page suggests that supplemental type certification (STC) is expected to be secured for the Q400 by the second quarter 2025.
According to ATR, EASA-approved design organization PMV Engineering developed the necessary modifications for certifying the Starlink phased array antenna terminal for ATR turboprops, with the kit now available as a retrofit option on both the ATR 72-500 and –600 for all ATR operators through a STC.
“After successful test flights carried out on our prototype, we have achieved a major milestone in our mission to elevate the standards of regional air travel: Starlink high-speed Internet is now available on ATR 72 aircraft,” declared ATR senior vice president of engineering Daniel Cuchet in a post on LinkedIn.
He called the solution a “game-changer that will enhance the passenger experience and keep our customers connected, even at cruising altitudes.”
In December 2023, Air New Zealand announced it was working with Starlink to introduce free Internet on board its domestic aircraft, saying it would test the system using both a jet and an ATR turboprop (it flies roughly 30 of the latter, in the -600 variant).
“After a successful trial,” it said, “Air New Zealand will look to roll out Starlink Internet on other aircraft in its domestic fleet in 2025.”
The carrier appears to be staying the course with its try-before-buy plan, with company chief digital officer Nikhil Ravishankar saying in a statement this week that: “We’re always looking at how new and innovative technology can deliver improved customer experiences and with the world’s largest satellite constellation, exploring in-motion connectivity on our aircraft with Starlink was a no brainer.
“Whether travelling for work or leisure, we know maintaining seamless internet connectivity is something that will transform the travel experience for customers. We can’t wait to bring connectivity to our domestic flights. Collaborating with ATR and the PMV Engineering team has been fantastic, and their expertise has been instrumental in bringing this vision to life.”
For ATR’s Cuchet, Starlink opens up “a new era” for the European turboprop manufacturer, with the slimline kit considered perfectly suited to the ATR platform in terms of aerodynamics.
“This achievement demonstrates our dedication to staying ahead of the curve, responding to the latest travel trends in line with our customers’ expectations, and collaborating with industry-leading partners who share a vision of excellence and innovation to transform the way people experience air travel,” said Cuchet.
The connectivity pipe is also expected to drive operational benefits at Air New Zealand, allowing pilots to connect to aviation weather services, enhancing flight safety through more informed decision-making.
