5G internet connectivity is slated to become available on Russian airplanes by 2027, according to Maksut Shadaev, the Minister of Digital Development, Communications and Mass Media of the Russian Federation.

Alongside 5G, satellite internet is also expected to debut in the country in the same year, 2027.

This announcement builds upon previous statements made by Shadaev a year prior, where he anticipated widespread Wi-Fi availability on airplanes around 2028. The realization of this plan hinges on the successful launch of low-Earth orbit communication satellites.

The ambitious project aims to launch 737 satellites by 2030.

Estimates suggest that creating a Russian equivalent to services such as Starlink will require a substantial investment, with initial projections placing the cost at approximately 445 billion rubles.

Private company “Bureau 1440” is expected to play a significant role in the satellite deployment, with plans to launch around 383 satellites. In May 2024, “Bureau 1440” formalized agreements with Aeroflot and Russian Railways to deliver internet services onboard.