✈️ FAA x Starlink: From Small Trials to National Expansion

Back in February 2025, the FAA began limited tests of SpaceX’s Starlink satellites at just three locations — including remote Alaska and Atlantic City, NJ — to explore how satellite internet could support air traffic systems in underserved areas.

At the time, the move sparked debate:
⚠️ Would Starlink’s latency meet air traffic safety standards?
🧩 Could it complement (or challenge) existing Verizon & L3Harris systems?
 

💥 Fast forward to July 2025, and things are moving much faster:

✅ Over 41 Starlink terminals are now being tested
📍Deployed in Alaska (28), Oklahoma (11), and NJ (2)
🛰️ Supporting weather, radar, and remote tower connectivity
🆘 Following a major outage near Newark Airport in May, FAA used Starlink as emergency backup
💸 Part of a $12B air traffic modernization plan rolling out over 3 years