SpaceX Internet Option Finds First In-Flight Customer

SpaceX has announced its service will enter use with small independent air carrier JSX as an in-flight internet solution. 

Until now, the provider has not been a high-profile option, with most opting for SmartSky or Gogo to provide service off of terrestrial Air-to-Ground networks. Starlink's satellite based service stands apart from the crowd, and according to a JSX tweet, passengers on their flights will soon be able to use the internet free of charge once rollout is complete. The move came as a surprise to some, given the battle for in-flight connectivity. Starlink has been rumored to have aeronautical applications, but until the JSX announcement, no carrier had implemented them as an option. The news was received well, with the company making the announcement on Twitter to the surprise and excitement of the Musk fanbase. How the service will ultimately stack up against other 5G options  should prove to be an interesting competition.

The small carrier offers "private travel at not-so-private fares", seeing itself as a blend between the best of both airline travel and chartered service. JSX runs regional flights between a host of cities throughout the southwest, with limited service to Texas, Florida, and New York. The carrier's fleet of Embraer E145s fly its regular routes in addition to charter service so all can try out the "world's most joyful air carrier". 

The market for inflight internet has been a hot one in recent months, bolstered by a surge in business aviation activity, increasing passenger travel, and a growing 5G ecosystem throughout cell networks around the world. Having a performance edge in speed is increasingly key to retaining clientele, especially with the simultaneous explosion in remote work across a host of industries. Offering passengers consistent, fast internet service has quickly gone from a luxury to a necessity. 

In their announcement, JSX said they are "proud to be the first air carrier to adopt SpaceX Starlink internet inflight, free for every Customer onboard. We'd call it the best Wi-Fi in the sky, but it's actually the greatest Wi-Fi in the galaxy - coming later this year. 

FMI: www.jsx.com