Italian Rail Operator Italo to Deploy Starlink Satellite Internet
MILAN, February 12, 2026 – Italian high-speed rail operator Italo announced today it will become the first major train company globally to implement SpaceX’s Starlink system across its entire fleet. The move aims to provide passengers with reliable, high-speed internet connectivity during travel.
The rollout, slated for completion by 2027, will enable passengers to stream content, participate in video calls, and work online while on board, addressing a common pain point for high-speed rail travelers – inconsistent Wi-Fi access, particularly in geographically challenging areas. This investment underscores the growing demand for seamless connectivity in the transportation sector.
Italo’s decision follows nearly a year of testing, which demonstrated significant performance gains. According to company data, tests on trains traveling up to 300 kilometers per hour achieved speeds exceeding 400 Mbps with a latency of around 25 milliseconds. The company reported that 85% of passengers involved in the trials expressed full satisfaction with the service, with over half assigning the highest possible rating.
“This represents an important and strategic agreement, confirming our commitment to improving the travel experience,” Italo stated in a press release.
While Italo is the first to commit to a full-fleet implementation, other rail operators have been exploring the potential of Starlink. Italy’s state railway Ferrovie dello Stato conducted a two-week trial with Starlink and another provider last year, and Scotland’s ScotRail completed a six-week Starlink trial in 2025. France’s SNCF is also considering integrating terrestrial networks with low Earth-orbit satellite solutions.
Starlink, utilizing a constellation of satellites in low Earth orbit, is rapidly expanding its presence in the aviation industry, offering connectivity solutions for airlines. The system provides high-performance broadband with reduced latency. Italo will offer the Wi-Fi service free of charge to passengers.
The partnership with Elon Musk’s SpaceX is expected to revolutionize the passenger experience on Italo trains. Further details on the financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed.
The move by Italo reflects a broader trend toward enhanced connectivity in the transportation sector, as companies seek to cater to the increasing demands of digitally connected travelers.
