JetBlue has announced it will be the first airline to use Amazon’s Project Kuiper satellite technology to improve its in-flight Wi-Fi service. The partnership aims to enhance JetBlue’s Fly-Fi, providing faster and more reliable connectivity for passengers beginning in 2027.
Project Kuiper is Amazon’s network of low Earth orbit satellites, which are designed to deliver high-speed internet to a wide range of customers worldwide, including those on planes. Unlike traditional geostationary satellites that operate at much higher altitudes, Kuiper satellites orbit between 367 and 391 miles above Earth. This lower altitude allows for reduced latency and a more stable connection for users onboard aircraft.
JetBlue first introduced free high-speed Wi-Fi with Fly-Fi in 2013 and plans to continue offering complimentary service using the new Kuiper-powered system. Marty St. George, president of JetBlue, said, “Our agreement with Project Kuiper marks an exciting leap forward for us as the hands-down leader in onboard connectivity. Whether it’s binge-watching a favorite show, staying connected with loved ones, or wrapping up a work project, we’re always looking for ways to make our customers’ time in the air as connected and productive as they want it to be.”
The demand for reliable in-flight Wi-Fi has grown due to increased usage of streaming services and cloud platforms among travelers. Panos Panay, senior vice president of Amazon Devices & Services, stated: “Staying connected is part of everyday life, even when you’re traveling. With Project Kuiper, we’re working to ensure you have a high-speed connectivity experience wherever you are—at home or 35,000 feet in the air.”
Amazon’s aviation-grade terminal uses Ka-band phased array antennas capable of supporting download speeds up to 1 Gbps per device. This allows substantial bandwidth for activities such as streaming during flights.
In addition to the JetBlue partnership, Amazon has also signed an agreement with Airbus to integrate Project Kuiper into its aircraft catalog. These collaborations are part of Amazon’s efforts to expand global access to fast internet through its satellite constellation.
