Inverness, Scotland — ScotRail is embarking on a transformative journey to enhance the passenger experience, launching a six-month trial of onboard Wi-Fi using Starlink, the satellite technology developed by Elon Musk’s SpaceX.
The pilot program will equip six trains on routes in the north of Scotland with Starlink’s low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites, offering high-speed internet to passengers for the first time in the UK. The services selected for this trial include popular routes from Inverness to Wick, Thurso, Kyle of Lochalsh, and Aberdeen — all regions known for their remote and rural locations where connectivity has traditionally been a challenge.
“This is the first time we’ve been able to provide reliable Wi-Fi in these hard-to-reach areas, and it could pave the way for similar technologies on more southern routes,” said Scott Prentice, ScotRail’s strategy and planning director.
Satellite Technology Set to Revolutionise Scottish Rail Travel
The decision to integrate Starlink into Scotland’s rail infrastructure marks a bold step forward in addressing one of the key complaints from train passengers: poor connectivity. The Starlink system, which relies on a network of satellites orbiting the Earth, promises to deliver stable and fast internet speeds even in the most remote corners of the country.
For ScotRail, this trial is part of a broader strategy to improve the passenger experience across rural routes. If successful, the technology could eventually be expanded to the entire Class 158 fleet, extending to routes across the West Highlands, Dumfries, Stranraer, and the Borders.
“For many of our passengers, connectivity is no longer a luxury — it’s an essential part of their journey,” Prentice said. “This technology could transform how people experience long train journeys in Scotland.”
A Game Changer for Rural Scotland
Incorporating satellite technology into public transport isn’t just a technical milestone. It could help reshape the way Scotland’s rural areas are perceived and integrated into the digital age. The Highland and Island communities, in particular, have long struggled with unreliable internet connections, which have hindered everything from business development to access to online education.
By partnering with Clarus Networks, which distributes access to Starlink in the UK, ScotRail aims to solve these connectivity issues while offering passengers the convenience of consistent and high-speed Wi-Fi.
Business Minister Richard Lochhead expressed his optimism about the trial, stating that reliable internet will help passengers make the most of their travel time. This could be particularly beneficial for those who work remotely or need to stay connected with family or business while traveling through Scotland’s vast and sometimes isolated landscapes.
“Reliable Wi-Fi is about more than just convenience — it enhances productivity and quality of life, especially for people living in more rural and hard-to-reach areas,” Lochhead said.
Starlink’s Controversial Founder and Scottish Political Backlash
However, the involvement of Elon Musk, whose business ventures extend from Tesla to SpaceX, has not been universally embraced in Scotland. The billionaire entrepreneur has faced criticism from figures within Scottish politics, including First Minister John Swinney and his predecessor, Humza Yousaf, both of whom have expressed reservations about Musk’s political influence.
Musk, known for his controversial statements and actions, has also been an informal adviser to former US President Donald Trump, adding another layer of political complexity to his involvement with the ScotRail project.
Despite these tensions, ScotRail remains firm in its belief that the benefits of satellite-powered connectivity far outweigh any potential political discord. The trial represents not only a step forward in rail travel but also a potential blueprint for how emerging technologies like Starlink can address longstanding infrastructure gaps in Scotland.
Looking Ahead: A Digital Future for Scotland’s Trains
As the trial progresses, ScotRail will monitor the performance of Starlink’s satellite technology, gathering data to assess whether it meets the needs of passengers. If successful, the service could become a cornerstone of Scotland’s broader transport strategy, integrating cutting-edge technology into a system historically hampered by digital divides.
“We hope that this project will be just the beginning of rolling out improved connectivity across Scotland’s rural train routes, ensuring that no matter where you live, you can access the digital services you need,” Prentice concluded.
