UK Government Plans Satellite Wi-Fi for 1,400 Trains

The UK government plans to equip 1,400 trains with satellite-based internet connections to replace current mobile networks. A government source said the project would improve speeds and reduce coverage gaps on main-line routes over the next few years.

Travel commentator Simon Calder told GB News the upgrades are needed but expressed concern about the timeline. He said reports indicate the work could take five years and stated the service should be delivered more quickly.

Calder noted that few train operators currently provide reliable Wi-Fi. He said the list of companies with good service is short while the list of those with poor service is long. He added that coverage would remain uneven, with some trains receiving strong signals and others experiencing continued gaps.

The plan includes connections to Elon Musk's Starlink network and a separate system called Project Reach. Project Reach will install fibre optic cables in tunnels and deep cuttings where satellite signals cannot reach. Calder said the improvements could help attract passengers and reduce the annual taxpayer subsidy for rail operations.

He noted that better connectivity might encourage travelers to choose trains over cars on routes such as Manchester to London.