Updated
Updated · railwaypro.com · Jun 24
CP Tests Starlink on Alfa Pendular Trains as Satellite Handles 19% of Onboard Traffic
Updated
Updated · railwaypro.com · Jun 24

CP Tests Starlink on Alfa Pendular Trains as Satellite Handles 19% of Onboard Traffic

3 articles · Updated · railwaypro.com · Jun 24

Summary

  • CP has begun a pilot on an Alfa Pendular train using Starlink-based satellite connectivity to improve onboard Wi-Fi, especially on route sections where mobile coverage weakens.
  • Initial tests were positive, with satellite links carrying about 19% of total onboard traffic and proving particularly useful where terrestrial mobile networks perform poorly.
  • The system adds satellite antennas to complement CP’s existing mobile-network setup, aiming to deliver faster, more stable, low-latency internet throughout the journey.
  • CP will now track stability, coverage, technical performance and passenger-perceived service quality before deciding whether to expand the technology across more services.

Insights

With Starlink on board, will Portuguese train tickets become a luxury?
Is national rail becoming dangerously dependent on Elon Musk's satellite network?
If mobile networks handle 81% of data, is satellite Wi-Fi just a costly fix for the gaps?