ScotRail trials Starlink satellites wi-fi in UK first

Elon Musk’s Starlink satellites will supply wi-fi to train passengers in the north of Scotland for the first time in the UK.

ScotRail will trial the technology in six trains that operate on the Inverness to Wick, Thurso, Kyle of Lochalsh, and Aberdeen services.

The rail operator said the six-month pilot was a first for the UK for onboard passenger wi-fi and, if successful, could be deployed in other routes.

The system has been designed in partnership with Clarus Networks and allows trains to connect with a Low Earth Orbit satellite network operated by Starlink.

“This project marks a major step forward in closing the digital divide for rural rail routes,” Mike Butler, Clarus Networks director of rail & innovation, said.

He added: “This approach helps overcome the coverage and performance limitations of traditional mobile networks – a challenge faced by rail operators globally. We’re proud to work with ScotRail and our partners to prove what’s possible and help shape the future of rail communications – improving both operational performance and the experience for passengers.”

If successful, the technology could be rolled out across ScotRail’s 158 trains covering other rural lines including the West Highlands, Stranraer, Dumfries and the Borders.