Elon Musk's internet satellite faces the commercial challenges of Ryanair

The conflict between Elon Musk and the airline industry over Starlink reveals a deep divide between technological ambitions and the economic realities of the market. The satellite heavily depends on its commercial viability, especially in the context of low-cost airlines like Ryanair.

Technical Challenges vs. Commercial Constraints

For Elon Musk, integrating Starlink satellite internet into aircraft represents a communication revolution. He particularly minimizes the aerodynamic impact, claiming that the drag caused by the antenna remains negligible. However, this technical vision clashes with a different commercial reality. Michael O’Leary, CEO of Ryanair, highlights two major obstacles: high installation costs and limited passenger enthusiasm for this additional service. In an economic model where every cent counts, these considerations are not secondary.

The Satellite: Promising Technology, Uncertain Adoption

Satellite internet has fascinated the aviation industry for years. Yet, its deployment faces substantial financial barriers. For low-cost carriers, the equation is simple: the service adds an extra cost without guaranteed sufficient additional revenue. Customers of these airlines prioritize low fares over premium in-flight services.

Legal Obstacles and Regulatory Limits

Beyond commercial issues, Musk would face serious legal constraints regarding ownership. The acquisition of Ryanair by a foreign entity, even partially, raises complex regulatory issues. These legal restrictions, combined with economic challenges, pose significant barriers to any forced integration of the satellite into the airline fleet.