Starlink has a new rival in the sky. Amazon’s much-awaited Project Kuiper has found its first airline partner. JetBlue Amazon Kuiper inflight WiFi is expected to launch in early 2027, bringing faster and more reliable internet service to passengers.
JetBlue, known as the first US airline to offer free fleet-wide WiFi, is once again leading innovation. With Kuiper, passengers will enjoy seamless streaming, work, and connectivity in the air. Meanwhile, United has teamed up with Starlink in September 2024 to offer high-speed internet onboard.
What is Amazon’s Project Kuiper?
Project Kuiper is Amazon’s low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite network. Unlike traditional satellites, which orbit far above the Earth, Kuiper’s satellites fly much closer, around 370 miles high. This proximity allows for lower latency and faster speeds.
The network is still under construction, but Amazon has already launched over 100 satellites and plans to build a constellation of more than 3,200 in the coming years. The vision is to deliver high-speed internet everywhere, from remote villages to aircraft cruising at 35,000 feet.
Also Read: Best Inflight WiFi
How will the JetBlue and Amazon Partnership work?
Starting in 2027, JetBlue will begin installing Kuiper’s satellite terminals on select aircraft. This will include older Airbus A321s operating from major hubs such as New York and Boston. The rollout of JetBlue Amazon Kuiper inflight WiFi will be gradual, with about a quarter of the fleet expected to have Kuiper equipment by 2028.
JetBlue plans to use a multi-orbit approach. This means it will combine Kuiper’s LEO satellites with existing GEO networks to ensure maximum reliability, even in areas where one network may face limitations.
Amazon Kuiper VS Starlink WiFi
Although Amazon has ambitious plans with Project Kuiper. But SpaceX-owned Starlink already dominates low Earth orbit. It has over 7,500 satellites in service. The FCC has approved 12,000 and is reviewing 30,000 more. This scale gives Starlink a huge lead. Eleven airlines, including United, Air France and Qatar Airways already use or test it. Many more are in talks, making Starlink the early winner in inflight connectivity.
Do you think other airlines will wait for JetBlue Amazon Kuiper inflight wifi to roll out? What do you think airlines like Emirates and Etihad Airways will choose? Comment below and let us know about your thoughts.
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