British operator Lumo will introduce Starlink Wi-Fi technology on its trains on the East Coast Main Line starting this fall. The satellite-based internet system is expected to provide faster and more stable connections for passengers traveling between London, the northeast of England, and Scotland.
Lumo, a British open access rail operator, will install Starlink Wi-Fi technology on its fleet of electric trains running on the East Coast Main Line, one of the UK’s main intercity rail routes.
Lumo services connect King’s Cross Station to destinations such as Stevenage, Newcastle, Morpeth, Edinburgh, Falkirk, and Glasgow. The rollout of satellite connectivity is scheduled for this fall and is part of a program to enhance the onboard experience.
Starlink provides internet via a network of low-Earth orbit satellites, with the aim of delivering high-speed, low-latency connections even in rural areas or regions with poor mobile coverage.
Partnership with Hitachi, Icomera, and Beacon Rail
The system will be implemented in partnership with Hitachi, the train manufacturer; Icomera, a company specializing in integrated connectivity solutions; and Beacon Rail, the rolling stock leasing provider.
Lumo says the new system will offer a faster and more reliable connection throughout the entire journey. The operator states that onboard Wi-Fi has become increasingly important to passengers, both for those traveling for business and for those using the train for leisure.
Traditional systems relying on mobile coverage or infrastructure along the line can be affected by dead zones and technical limitations, particularly on long intercity routes. Lumo claims that Starlink technology can mitigate these issues and provide a more consistent connection throughout the entire journey.
Better connectivity on intercity trains
The operator is presenting the introduction of Starlink as an important step for digital connectivity on the East Coast Main Line. Passengers would be able to work more easily, stream online entertainment, or stay connected throughout their journey.
Lumo has also tested digital solutions for passengers on other routes. The operator already offers 5G-compatible Wi-Fi on its new services on the West Coast, between London Euston and Stirling stations, one of the few offerings of its kind in the British rail industry.
By introducing Starlink on its East Coast services, Lumo is strengthening its position in onboard connectivity, at a time when rail operators are striving to make trains more competitive with cars and planes.
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