British Airways passengers can now make voice and video calls onboard specific flights thanks to the introduction of Starlink WiFi.
British Airways now allows voice and video calls on select flights. Aircraft equipped with Starlink WiFi, which officially launched on March 19, enable passengers on British Airways to communicate via voice and video while flying.
British Airways is initiating a rollout of Starlink WiFi across its entire fleet over the next two years. This service will be offered free of charge to all passengers, with no restrictions on the number of devices logged on. During this rollout, the airline has informed passengers about the ability to make voice or video calls, but with specific guidelines. Passengers are requested to keep their voices low and use headphones to prevent disturbing others in the cabin.
BA also encourages passengers to utilize headphones while watching videos or listening to audio content on their devices. The Starlink connection promises to deliver fast enough speeds for streaming, although passengers are advised to avoid accessing “offensive” or inappropriate content, as some sites will be blocked.
Recommended Fodor’s Video
Starlink is set to be available on all BA flights eventually, with a focus on long-haul aircraft in the initial rollout phase. The service aims to reach various destinations worldwide, though it is not yet available in locations such as Russia, China, Belarus, North Korea, Northern Cyprus, and India.
In the United States, several airlines, including United, Alaska, and Hawaiian, are also adopting Starlink WiFi. However, these airlines do not currently permit passengers to make voice or video calls according to their policies. While the Federal Communications Commission prohibits the use of cellular networks on airliners within U.S. airspace, some European airlines do permit in-flight cellular calls. Ultimately, the decision to allow calls over WiFi rests with the individual airlines.
At one stage, Congress attempted to ban calls made over WiFi, but no final regulations were established, allowing calls to remain contingent upon specific airline policies.
The introduction of in-flight voice and video calls could alter the traditional travel experience for many business travelers. While it is common for these individuals to expect email accessibility while on the move, the possibility of being reachable for virtual meetings during flights may disrupt the long-held notion of air travel as a temporary escape from work. This change could lead to the blending of travel time with essential work obligations for business passengers.
Airlines might find themselves in challenging situations as they manage how passengers utilize their devices during flights. Some companies implement policies requiring the use of headphones for content streaming or downloading. This approach complicates flight attendants’ roles, increasing their responsibilities and the likelihood of in-flight disputes.
Many U.S. airlines, irrespective of whether they have adopted Starlink, allow free messaging services during flights. Airlines with alternative internet solutions also offer WiFi, typically available for a fee. However, existing services generally lack the capabilities for streaming, video, or voice calls. In contrast, Starlink offers a marked enhancement in data speeds, facilitating streaming and other high-data activities for the first time.
Since 1991, the use of cellular networks has been banned on U.S. flights. This regulation was instituted by the FCC due to concerns that in-flight cell phone usage could interfere with the functioning of ground-based cellular systems. Additionally, radio signals have been prohibited on commercial flights since the 1960s.
