Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary is feuding with Elon Musk over installing Starlink internet service on Ryanair aircraft. Dublin, Ireland, January 21, 2026. REUTERS/Clodagh Kilcoyne
The social-media feud between Elon Musk and Ryanair boss Michael O'Leary over the cost of fitting Starlink's WiFi service has reignited a long-running debate in aviation: who really needs internet at 30,000 feet?
For long-haul carriers chasing premium travellers it is fast becoming non-negotiable. But for short-haul and budget airlines like Ryanair the economics look less compelling.
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