May 16, 2023
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SpaceX’s Starlink internet could be accessible by guests onboard Royal Caribbean cruises soon.
In a filing with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) on Friday, first highlighted by the PC Magazine, Royal Caribbean Group mentioned its desire to be able to offer Starlink satellite internet on its cruise ships.
It is the first cruise liner that filed a request with the FCC to offer Starlink internet on ships. Carriers like Hawaiian Airlines and the jet firm JSX, have struck deals with Elon Musk’s firm to offer guests in-flight Wi-Fi connectivity.
Despite the deals, the FCC has not yet given approval to Starlink for using it on moving vehicles.
Royal Caribbean urged the FCC to approve the application of SpaceX to operate Starlink on trucks, planes, ships, and other modes of transport.
Royal Caribbean says it has 24 ships but it is unclear from the FCC filing how many ships will boast Starlink, to begin with.
SpaceX launched a Starlink service option in May designed for RV owners and costing about $135 a month. However, the company’s official website mentioned Starlink must not be operated when in motion. Musk tweeted: Starlink works on vehicles that are in motion, even in planes, but it is not yet that stable or reliable.
SpaceX, Royal Caribbean, and the FCC did not respond immediately to Insider’s request for comments made outside their usual working hours.
Reference: Business Insider India, Techradar
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