EASA, the European civil aviation authority, has granted certification so that ATR 72 aircraft can be equipped with high-speed internet connectivity provided by Starlink.
The approval comes after several test flights conducted in recent months by an ATR 72-600, the manufacturer said.
The modification is part of an optional retrofit available for the ATR 72-500 and ATR 72-600 turboprops, through a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC).
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Starlink is a constellation of small satellites designed by SpaceX, owned by entrepreneur Elon Musk. With the capacity to provide broadband internet anywhere on the planet, the network has been chosen by several airlines such as United Airlines.
According to ATR, Air New Zealand is expected to be the launch customer for the service in 2025.
“Starlink opens up a new era for ATR, offering unparalleled levels of comfort and passenger experience in the regional market,” said Daniel Cuchet, Senior Vice-President Engineering at ATR.
In addition to the benefits for passengers, the Starlink system will also benefit pilots, who will have access to real-time aviation weather services.
The external modification required is minimal, as the antenna, installed on the top of the fuselage, is quite compact.
