According to Sawyer Merritt on Twitter, Ryanair has decided not to install Starlink satellite WiFi on its airplanes, citing a 2% fuel penalty stemming from additional weight and drag, as well as the short duration of its flights (source: Sawyer Merritt, Twitter, January 14, 2026). This decision highlights a growing trend in the airline industry where AI-driven connectivity solutions must balance operational costs with passenger demand and route characteristics. The business opportunity for AI-enhanced in-flight connectivity is evident in long-haul markets, but low-cost carriers like Ryanair may remain cautious unless AI can optimize hardware for minimal drag and improved fuel efficiency.