Frontier just made its biggest in-flight upgrade in years
Frontier Airlines is finally getting Wi-Fi.
Not only that, but the airline says it will be "the fastest Wi-Fi in the sky."
Starting early next year, the low-cost carrier will offer high-speed internet via SpaceX's Starlink for streaming, gaming and more. While it's not the first carrier to use Elon Musk's satellite network, Frontier will be the first U.S. airline to do so "through a new system managed directly by Starlink," according to a news release on July 14.
"Beyond enhancing the customer experience, Starlink will provide gate-to-gate connectivity for Frontier's pilots, flight attendants, maintenance teams, and ground operations, enabling improved operational performance and more seamless customer service," Frontier added.
Just a day earlier, the airline's website had said, "Frontier flights do not currently offer Wi-Fi, TV, movies, or other in-flight entertainment options, and there are no electrical outlets on board. This is part of how we keep our costs low - by skipping extras like these, we can pass the savings."
In announcing the changes, Frontier CEO Jimmy Dempsey reaffirmed the company's commitment to low fares, but said it's evolving travel experiences. "We're continuing to invest in the products and services that matter most to our customers," Dempsey said with a nod to the recent addition of First Class seating and expanded loyalty perks.
The airline's global partners, Cebu Pacific, JetSMART, Volaris and Wizz Air, will also offer SpaceX's Starlink service.
Pricing and parameters will be announced down the line.
Can you get free Wi-Fi on a plane?
Yes. Many major U.S. carriers offer complimentary on-board Wi-Fi to members of their airline loyalty programs.
Membership is free and only requires signing up.
Which airlines provide free Wi-Fi?
Alaska, Hawaiian Airlines - Free Wi-Fi, via T-Mobile and Starlink, is available on select flights to members of the Atmos Rewards program.
American Airlines - Free Wi-Fi, sponsored by AT&T, is available on most domestic U.S flights and some international flights for members of the airline's AAdvantage loyalty program.
Delta Air Lines - Free Wi-Fi, presented by T-Mobile, is available on most domestic U.S. and international flights for members of Delta's SkyMiles loyalty program.
JetBlue - All of JetBlue's planes are equipped with free Wi-Fi, but the airline says service may not be available on some international flights. Loyalty program membership is not required.
Southwest Airlines - Free Wi-Fi, via T-Mobile, is available on "WiFi-enabled designated aircraft" for members of Southwest's Rapid Rewards loyalty program.
United Airlines - Free Starlink-enabled Wi-Fi is available to members of United's MileagePlus loyalty program on select flights, with plans for a wider rollout in coming years. On other flights, free messaging and entertainment are available, but passengers must pay for standard Wi-Fi. It costs $8 or 800 miles for MileagePlus members and $10 for non-members on domestic U.S. flights and short-haul international flights. Pricing varies for other destinations.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Frontier just made its biggest in-flight upgrade in years
Reporting by Eve Chen, USA TODAY / USA TODAY
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
Copyright Reuters or USA Today Network via Reuters Connect
This story was originally published July 14, 2026 at 9:01 AM.