Italian high-speed rail operator Italo will introduce “ultra-fast” wifi across its entire fleet following a deal with Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite system.
The new Starlink service will be rolled out from mid 2026, with full implementation expected by 2027. Italo’s fleet currently consists of 25 Alstom AGV 575 trains and 26 new EVO trains.
“This agreement with Starlink represents an important and strategic step that confirms our commitment to improving the travel experience,” said Italo CEO Gianbattista La Rocca, adding “we are the first major high-speed railway company in the world to focus on this technology.”
The rollout follows a year-long trial period, during which 85 per cent of travellers reported being “fully satisfied” with the service, according to the rail operator.
Italo said the agreement with Starlink marks the first step in its plans to enhance onboard multimedia services, with “a wide range of innovative products and services” to be introduced throughout the year.
European rail operators such as ScotRail, České dráhy (Czech Railways) and the UK’s South Western Railway have also commenced trials with Starlink.
Several major airline groups have also recently announced plans to introduce Starlink internet onboard their aircraft – including Lufthansa Group, IAG, Air France, Emirates and SAS.