WestJet's Starlink Wi-Fi Launch Sparks Mixed Reactions Amid Growing Canadian Concerns Over Musk's Companies
March 26, 2025
Critics have voiced concerns about dependence on a Musk-owned enterprise, particularly regarding potential changes in service or outages, especially in remote communities.
Musk's Tesla has faced backlash in Canada, including protests at dealerships and vandalism of vehicles, further complicating the public perception of his companies.
In addition, the British Columbia government has excluded Tesla from its charger rebate program, and the Vancouver Auto Show has removed Tesla from its lineup due to the ongoing trade war.
Starlink's network, comprising over 7,000 low-Earth orbit satellites, delivers broadband internet to around five million subscribers, making Canada its largest market outside the U.S.
Starlink is also recognized for providing crucial internet access during emergencies and connecting remote residents to essential online services like education and healthcare.
This partnership with Starlink is part of a multi-year agreement announced in July 2023, aimed at enhancing the guest experience through high-speed internet.
However, the Ontario government recently canceled its contract with Starlink due to ongoing U.S. tariffs, highlighting the negative implications for Musk's companies.
WestJet has officially launched its on-board Wi-Fi service powered by Elon Musk's Starlink, with free Wi-Fi now available on 16 of its nearly 140 planes following federal certification.
The new service promises high-speed internet that allows passengers to stream content and use their devices similarly to on the ground.
Passengers have reported impressive speeds, with one user achieving download speeds of 117 Mbps during a flight from Toronto to Fort Lauderdale.
Amid rising patriotism, some Canadians are urging WestJet to reconsider its Wi-Fi plans, expressing concerns over reliance on a foreign company for critical services.
The partnership with Starlink has sparked mixed reactions from Canadians, raising concerns about potential backlash against WestJet due to Musk's controversial public image.
Summary based on 7 sources
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Sources

The Globe and Mail • Mar 26, 2025
WestJet launches on-board Wi-Fi service powered by Elon Musk’s Starlink
BNN Bloomberg • Mar 26, 2025
WestJet launches Wi-Fi service powered by Elon Musk's Starlink
Yahoo Finance • Mar 26, 2025
WestJet launches Wi-Fi service powered by Elon Musk's Starlink
MobileSyrup • Mar 27, 2025
WestJet now powers flight Wi-Fi with Starlink amid Musk controversy