Aviation Pilots Rally Against Starlink’s In-flight Internet Service Price Surge
General aviation pilots are voicing their discontent over Starlink’s recent overhaul of its in-flight internet service. The restructuring has led to a staggering 500% hike in costs and a reduction in data allowances by more than half.
In the early days of March 2026, Starlink enforced a 100 mph (87 knots) speed cap on its standard Roam and Priority plans. This move rendered these plans virtually useless for most general aviation aircraft in flight. Pilots are now left with the choice between two costly aviation-specific tiers: the Aviation 300MPH at $250/month (20GB data, $10/GB overage) or the Aviation 450MPH at $1,000/month (20GB data, $50/GB overage).
Prior to this, pilots had access to affordable $50-65/month roaming plans that offered 100GB of data at speeds up to 450 mph. A Change.org petition has since been launched, garnering over 4,000 signatures from disgruntled pilots. These pilots had invested in Starlink Mini hardware ($250) and mounting equipment, only to be met with drastic price surges.
“A large number of general aviation operators across the globe have used Starlink as a safety-enhancing tool. It is unfortunate that the company has now priced out the lion’s share of general aviation pilots,” lamented Jim Coon, AOPA senior vice president of government affairs.
Source: Avweb