Starlink Roam Plans: Can You Use It on a Plane?

SpaceX’s Starlink Roam, previously known as Starlink for RVs, is designed to provide internet access in remote or mobile environments. It comes in two versions: Regional and Global, and is popular among travelers, van-lifers, and maritime users. However, using Starlink Roam aboard an aircraft involves several important technical and regulatory limitations.

What is Starlink Roam?

Starlink Roam is a satellite-based internet service that allows users to access broadband connectivity across a wide geographic area. The Regional Roam plan allows service within a user’s home continent, while the Global Roam plan offers coverage worldwide, including in countries where Starlink is licensed to operate.

Hardware Considerations

• Standard Starlink Dish (Dishy): Designed for fixed or portable land use. This includes the rectangular dish commonly used with RVs and campers.
• Flat High-Performance Dish: Built for in-motion use, particularly for vehicles and vessels. It has better GPS tracking and field of view capabilities, essential for maintaining connectivity while moving.

To enable in-motion usage, including on aircraft, Starlink requires the Flat High-Performance Dish, which is more expensive and demands professional installation.

In-Flight Use: Technically Feasible but Not for Individuals

SpaceX has launched a separate product line for aviation use: Starlink Aviation, which is tailored for commercial and business jets. This service features:

• Custom-designed aero terminal (antenna) for high-speed connectivity at cruising altitudes.
• Speeds up to 350 Mbps per aircraft.
• Latency as low as 20 ms.

However, Starlink Aviation is a separate commercial service and not covered under Starlink Roam plans. It is marketed to aircraft operators (e.g., charter companies and airlines), not individuals. Equipment installation and service costs are significantly higher, installation costs are estimated to be $150,000+, and monthly service plans range from $12,500 to $25,000 depending on bandwidth.

FAA and Regulatory Restrictions

Using consumer-grade Starlink Roam equipment on a private or commercial aircraft is not authorized by the FAA or aviation authorities in most jurisdictions. Starlink Roam is not certified for airborne use, and operating unapproved communication equipment on aircraft can pose safety and legal issues.

Can You Use Starlink Mini on a Plane?

You cannot use a Starlink Roam plan for in-flight internet access on a plane. While technically feasible with Starlink’s high-performance hardware, regulatory and commercial barriers restrict airborne use to the Starlink Aviation product line, which is intended for enterprise-scale customers rather than individuals. For now, personal in-flight connectivity must rely on services provided by airlines or via authorized aviation internet providers.