WestJet's Starlink Wi-Fi Launch Sparks Mixed Reactions Amid Growing Canadian Concerns Over Musk's Companies

March 26, 2025
WestJet's Starlink Wi-Fi Launch Sparks Mixed Reactions Amid Growing Canadian Concerns Over Musk's Companies
  • 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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