Starlink rival Eutelsat rolls out wifi on Air Canada planes

Eutelsat's rollout of Wi-Fi on Air Canada planes signifies a strategic move to enhance in-flight connectivity and challenge Starlink's dominance in the aviation sector.

1. **Strategic Rivalry with Starlink**:
- Eutelsat, Europe’s rival to Starlink, is seeking to position itself as an alternative to Starlink, especially amid concerns over Starlink’s political affiliations.
- With over 7,000 satellites in orbit, Starlink boasts a significant lead in satellite constellation coverage. Eutelsat, however, is rapidly catching up with over 700 satellites and a growing backlog of over 1,000 aircraft for Wi-Fi installation.
2. **Air Canada's Adoption**:
- Air Canada has become the first airline to launch Eutelsat’s OneWeb in-flight Wi-Fi, indicating a confidence in Eutelsat’s service quality.
- This move aligns with Air Canada’s commitment to offering innovative passenger experiences, including free Wi-Fi on most of its regional aircraft and plans to expand to long-haul international routes.
3. **Market Impact and Customer Experience**:
- The introduction of high-speed Wi-Fi on Air Canada planes could set a new standard for other airlines to follow, enhancing customer satisfaction and potentially giving Air Canada a competitive edge.
- Aeroplan loyalty members can access free Wi-Fi, with a purchase option for non-members at C$8 for the duration of the flight.
4. **Future Expansion and Technological Advancement**:
- Air Canada’s partnership with Eutelsat is part of a broader initiative to offer streaming-quality connectivity, aiming to lead the industry in connectivity standards.
- The successful implementation of Wi-Fi on regional jets and the planned expansion to long-haul international routes demonstrate Air Canada’s commitment to staying at the forefront of in-flight technology.

In conclusion, Eutelsat’s Wi-Fi rollout on Air Canada planes is a significant development that could shift the balance of power in the aviation industry, particularly in the realm of in-flight connectivity. It also underscores the growing importance of satellite technology in enhancing air travel experiences.