Qatar Airways has set a new benchmark with the launch of a pioneering e-sports competition, ‘Gaming in the Sky’, onboard a commercial aircraft. The ground-breaking event was powered by next-generation Starlink connectivity and took place on 11 May 2025 during a flight from Doha to London.
The tournament brought together a global roster of top gaming and entertainment talent, including Tfue, Castro1021, Lisa Zimouche, Alodia Gosiengfiao, Dantic, SV2, AJ3, Aameghessib, Danny Aarons, Ffearfful, MattHDGamer, and Slater with a special appearance by Oussifooty as the host. The experience marked a new milestone in the convergence of aviation, entertainment, and technology.
At 35,000 feet, the airline transformed the skies into a competitive gaming arena as two teams – Team Burgundy Oryx and Team Grey Aviators – faced off in a friendly mid-air showdown. Enabled by Starlink’s ultra-fast, low-latency internet, players competed in real-time with uninterrupted gameplay and live updates on Qatar Airways’ social media channels.
“At Qatar Airways, we are constantly pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the sky to deliver an inflight experience that captures the imagination and makes you feel right at home,” said Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer. “This competition represents a bold step into the future of passenger engagement and comfort when flying with Qatar Airways.”
Fans around the world followed the journey through Qatar Airways’ social media platforms, where inflight highlights and behind-the-scenes footage were shared throughout the flight.
The competition took place as Qatar Airways nears completion of its Boeing 777 fleet upgrade with Starlink connectivity, and just as the airline begins introducing the world’s first Airbus A350 equipped with Starlink. This strategic step will allow more passengers to enjoy fully complimentary, ultra-fast WiFi for streaming, gaming, and working seamlessly at 35,000 feet, further cementing Qatar Airways’ position at the forefront of aviation technology and passenger experience.
Hear more from Qatar Airways at FTE Global – the “CES of Aviation” taking place in Long Beach on 9 to 11 September 2025. Xia Cai, Senior Vice President Product Development and Design, Qatar Airways, is participating in the ‘Customer Journey & Future Mobility’.
Register for FTE Global 2025 >>You may also be interested in
12 technology and CX trends that can enhance airline and airport operations in 2025
