AirBaltic, the Latvian-based airline, has become the first carrier in Europe to introduce in-flight Wi-Fi powered by Elon Musk’s Starlink technology. The airline’s CEO, Martin Gauss, has defended the collaboration with SpaceX, emphasizing that the high-speed internet service will enhance the passenger experienc

While the partnership has sparked some controversy due to Musk’s ownership of Starlink, Gauss stressed that the technology itself is exceptional. “It generated some controversial headlines because Elon Musk owns the company. But the technology itself is exceptional,” Gauss said in an interview with Euronews.

The CEO expressed confidence that high-speed internet would become an industry standard in the next decade, making it an essential offering for modern airlines.

AirBaltic to Install Starlink on Airbus A220-300 Fleet

In late February, AirBaltic made a major announcement that it would equip its Airbus A220-300 fleet with Starlink Wi-Fi. This move makes AirBaltic the first European airline to integrate the satellite-powered service. The airline plans to install Starlink Wi-Fi on half of its 50 Airbus A220-300 aircraft by the middle of this year. The remaining planes will be upgraded by the end of 2025.

The adoption of this technology marks a significant milestone for both AirBaltic and SpaceX, with experts believing it could revolutionize the in-flight connectivity landscape.

Mixed Reactions to AirBaltic’s Starlink Partnership

While many have praised AirBaltic for bringing advanced in-flight connectivity to its passengers, the partnership with Elon Musk’s company has drawn criticism from some. On the social platform X, which Musk owns, some users voiced their displeasure with the collaboration.

One person wrote, “Musk’s actions threaten Latvia’s existence,” while another stated, “I was excited to fly via Riga with AirBaltic, but this changes things. I have to reconsider.” In fact, some went as far as to announce a boycott: “No support for Musk & Trump in these times.”

However, the announcement was also met with praise. “Congratulations on advancing aviation and space technology. A huge milestone for AirBaltic and SpaceX,” one supporter commented.

Airlines outside Europe have also adopted Starlink-powered Wi-Fi. Qatar Airways and Hawaiian Airlines have already integrated the service, while United Airlines is in the process of installing it on its planes.

Musk’s Political Influence and Controversial Statements

Elon Musk, who is also the CEO of Tesla, has become increasingly vocal in his political views, which has raised concerns for some. Musk has faced backlash for his outspoken political opinions, with critics blaming his actions for a decline in Tesla’s recent sales.

Musk has supported former U.S. President Donald Trump and contributed at least $288 million (€264 million) to Trump’s campaign and other Republican candidates. He also played a role in Trump’s administration, heading the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which aims to reduce state expenses.

Musk’s political influence extends beyond the U.S. He has publicly supported Germany’s far-right AfD party and voiced his endorsement of British extremist Tommy Robinson, who is currently in prison for contempt of court.

However, it is Musk’s stance on the war in Ukraine that has sparked the most controversy. In 2022, Musk created a Twitter poll suggesting that Crimea should be recognized as part of Russia, which led to backlash from many world leaders. He also admitted to restricting Starlink access to Ukrainian forces that year, which prevented a drone strike.

This week, Musk stated that Ukraine’s entire front line would collapse if he disabled Starlink, further fueling concerns over his influence in global politics. In response, the European Union has begun exploring alternative satellite providers, with companies like Luxembourg’s SES, Spain’s Hisdesat, Viasat, and France’s Eutelsat/OneWeb engaged in talks with EU officials.

AirBaltic’s Support for Ukraine Amid Controversy

Despite the political controversies surrounding Musk, AirBaltic has reaffirmed its strong support for Ukraine. CEO Martin Gauss emphasized that the airline shares a special bond with the Baltic states and is committed to contributing to Ukraine’s rebuilding efforts once the war ends.

“In the Baltic states, we share a unique bond. We want to contribute from the early stages of Ukraine’s rebuilding process,” Gauss said.

AirBaltic has worked closely with Ukrainian airports, particularly in Kyiv and Lviv, to ensure readiness to resume operations as soon as the situation allows. Gauss believes flights could restart the same day a ceasefire is declared.

“We were the last airline to leave, and we will be the first to return,” Gauss added. “But more than speed, long-term support is crucial.”

Several other airlines, including Ryanair, Wizz Air, and Ukraine International Airlines, are also planning to serve Ukraine’s travel market once the war ends. Gauss anticipates strong demand, not only from Ukrainian citizens but also from international professionals who will play a role in rebuilding the country.

With former U.S. President Donald Trump pushing for an end to the conflict, the expectation of a ceasefire continues to grow.

As AirBaltic pushes forward with its Starlink-powered Wi-Fi initiative, the airline’s commitment to innovation and support for Ukraine stands as a testament to its resilience and forward-thinking approach, despite the controversies surrounding its partnership with Musk and SpaceX