SpaceX Chops Starlink Roam, Priority Plans by 80 Knots

Starlink satcom operator SpaceX is reducing the maximum speed allowed for Starlink Roam, Local Priority, and Global Priority service plans from 471 to 391 knots groundspeed. The company notified users of the 80-knot reduction in a recent update.

“Effective November 7, 2025, we will be lowering the maximum supported operating groundspeed for all Roam, Local Priority, and Global Priority Plans from 550 mph (471 knots) to 450 mph (391 knots). The adjustment is part of our ongoing efforts to optimize network performance and ensure reliable service for all users.”

The update went on to suggest, “If this change affects your connectivity needs—particularly for high-speed in-motion applications—we encourage you to consider upgrading to one of our Aviation plans (20 GB or Unlimited).” There are no such speed limits on the Starlink Aviation plans.

Lowering the top speed limit for the non-Aviation plans affects users who are carrying a Starlink Mini antenna on their aircraft and mounting it in a location that can view the sky using suction cups or other non-permanent mechanisms. SpaceX recently lowered the Starlink Mini antenna kit price to $299, and various companies such as Sporty’s Pilot Shop, Avionics Networks, and others sell packages that enable mounting in the aircraft and connection to a suitable power supply.

Thus far, Epic Aircraft is the only OEM that has installed a Starlink Mini antenna, in this case with a permanent fixture outside the E1000 AX’s fuselage, under a blister fairing. The E1000 AX’s maximum speed is 333 ktas, so the turboprop single isn’t affected by the new limits (sans any 50-knot-plus tailwinds).

Roam service costs $50 per month for 50 GB or $165 per month for unlimited service. Local and Global Priority plan prices vary and aren’t published on the Starlink website.

Given the far lower price of Starlink Mini Roam and Priority plans, it is understandable that aircraft owners and operators might view carriage of a Starlink Mini system as portable equipment (and thus not covered by FAA installation certification regulations unless permanently mounted) as a desirable option. Starlink Mini users can opt to pay for the pricier Aviation plans and not worry about groundspeed limits. However, they must ensure that the Starlink Mini system does not interfere with onboard avionics or systems.

Starlink Aviation plans range from $2,000 per month for 20 GB plus $100 per additional GB to $10,000 per month for unlimited service. Installation of a Starlink Aviation system costs upward of $300,000 (hardware cost is $150,000), and the antenna is relatively large. The smallest aircraft on which a Starlink Aviation system has been installed is a Beechcraft King Air 200.