Corneel Koster, Chief Customer and Operating Officer at Virgin Atlantic, emphasised the significance of the collaboration: “Partnering with Boeing to bring Starlink’s next-generation connectivity to our 787 fleet is another important step in creating a ‘home away from home’ experience for every customer. Together, we’re transforming how our customers stay connected in the skies — with low latency, super high speed Wi-Fi, better than what most customers experience on the ground.”

The modifications will see Boeing install a new antenna fairing, known as the Boeing Aerodynamic Shroud, designed to accommodate Electronically Steered Phased Array (ESA) antennas. These ESA systems support Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and multi-orbit satellite connectivity, delivering faster, more reliable internet access onboard. Doug Backhus, vice president of Cabin, Modifications and Maintenance for Boeing Global Services, noted: “We’re witnessing rapid advances in satellite and antenna technology, and we’re proud to provide our OEM-backed engineering expertise and hardware that will enable Virgin Atlantic to bring faster, more reliable connectivity to their 787 Dreamliner fleet.”

Virgin Atlantic, founded by Sir Richard Branson in 1984, has consistently focused on innovation and customer service. It operates a young, fuel-efficient fleet with an average age under seven years and flies to 28 destinations worldwide. The airline is also a pioneer in sustainability initiatives, targeting Net Zero by 2050, and has demonstrated leadership in Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) adoption, including the world’s first transatlantic flight powered entirely by SAF.

Boeing, a leading global aerospace company, will leverage its engineering expertise to deliver these upgrades, reflecting rapid advances in satellite and antenna technology, and further supporting Virgin Atlantic’s commitment to a premium in-flight experience.