Everything you need—right here. This page lists the exact hardware, mounts, power solutions, and plan links to bring Starlink Internet into your cockpit (your own aircraft or a rental).
If you’ve been wondering how to get reliable Internet in your Cessna, Cirrus, Piper, or Bonanza—or even a rental aircraft—you’re in the right place. Below are the exact items pilots are using today to enable inflight Wi-Fi with the Starlink Mini, plus pilot-tested tips on mounting, power, data control, and safety.
Why Starlink Is a Game-Changer for General Aviation Pilots
As Sporty’s Bret Koebbe explained on Aviation News Talk (Episode 400), Starlink Mini is the first practical broadband option sized for small GA cockpits. Real-world uses include:
- Family & FBO updates: Text arrival changes when headwinds slow you down.
- Better weather awareness: Check in-flight weather cameras in ForeFlight; file PIREPs digitally to help other pilots.
- Passenger comfort: Passengers can browse/stream while you fly the airplane.
Distraction is real. Bret shared how streaming an NFL game inflight grabbed his attention within seconds—he shut it off immediately. Adopt simple SOPs:
- Use iPad Focus Mode (allow only critical alerts).
- Limit use to cruise; disconnect before descent (sterile cockpit).
- Enable Low Data Mode on your Wi-Fi connection to prevent background iCloud sync from burning data.
Hear the nuance: For more real-world tips and stories, listen to Aviation News Talk Episode 400 with Bret Koebbe (search your podcast app for “Aviation News Talk 400”).
The Products You’ll Need (with Buy Now links)
Starlink Mini
The compact Starlink dish that makes GA inflight Wi-Fi possible. Place where it has a clear sky view (rear window in Cessna and Cirrus; baggage/side window solutions for Piper/Bonanza).
Tip: Expect ~60W on startup and ~20–30W continuous. Plan your power accordingly.
Flight Gear Smart Battery Pack Max
Purpose-built to power Starlink Mini (and your iPad/headsets). High-output USB-C can satisfy the Mini’s startup draw; onboard display shows real-time watts and remaining runtime—great for cockpit management.
Typical standalone runtime: ~3 hours with Starlink Mini. Perfect for renters and quick installs.
Starlink Mini Aviation Kit
Streamlines cockpit setup with aviation-specific mounting and cable routing solutions—ideal if you want a neat, repeatable install in Cessna, Cirrus, Piper, or Bonanza.
MyGoFlight Starlink Mini Mount
When rear-window placement isn’t possible, this rugged mount offers flexible, secure positioning with an articulating arm—excellent for tricky low-wing cabins or jets.
Ravion Battery for Starlink Mini
Clips directly to the Mini for long legs and multi-segment days—favored by corporate ops or anyone who wants “set-and-forget” power endurance.
Related: considering ADS-B receivers? See my Best Portable ADS-B Receivers page.
Product Comparison Table
| Product | What it does | Power / Runtime | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starlink Mini | Core dish for broadband inflight Internet | ~60W startup, ~20–30W continuous | All GA aircraft; foundation of the setup |
| Flight Gear Battery | High-output USB-C power pack with watt display | ~3 hr powering Mini (typical) | Renters; no-mod quick deploy |
| Aviation Kit | GA-specific mounting & cable management | — | Neat, repeatable cockpit setups |
| MyGoFlight Mount | Premium suction + articulating placement | — | Low-wing cabins / flexible positioning |
| Ravion Clip Battery | Clip-on endurance power | Up to ~9 hr powering Mini | Long XC days; corporate ops |
Starlink Plans: Local vs Global Priority
Choose the plan that matches your typical route structure and speed. Both include 50 GB, with more data available in 50 GB blocks.
Starlink Local Priority
$65/month, includes 50 GB; supports in-motion speeds up to ~350 mph—ideal for piston singles and most light twins. Designed for mobile use on land within a single country (domestic operations).
Add data as needed (50 GB blocks). Offshore/overseas flying requires Global Priority.
Starlink Global Priority
$250/month, includes 50 GB; supports in-motion speeds up to ~475 knots (~550 mph). Designed for mobile use across multiple countries worldwide—best for international, offshore, and corporate jet operations.
Easy to switch plans seasonally (e.g., Caribbean in winter, domestic in summer).
Quick FAQs
Does Starlink replace ADS-B weather/traffic? No. Treat Internet weather as supplemental; ADS-B remains primary for tactical awareness. Don’t use Internet-only traffic feeds for close spacing or pattern work.
How do I avoid surprise data bills? Enable Low Data Mode on your iPad/iPhone Wi-Fi network to stop background iCloud syncing. Passengers should do the same.
What about legality? Starlink Mini is a portable electronic device; test for interference in your aircraft and secure all gear for turbulence. Use sterile-cockpit procedures.
Bottom Line
For about $499 hardware + $65/month, you can add practical broadband Internet to a small GA airplane—something that used to cost tens of thousands. With the products above, you can equip your aircraft (or rental) quickly and cleanly—and fly smarter with clear SOPs.
Disclosure: Some links are affiliate links. If you click and buy, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.