According to a report by Publituris, CP – Comboios de Portugal has launched a pilot project using Starlink satellite technology on one of its Alfa Pendular services to improve onboard Wi-Fi, particularly in areas where mobile coverage is weaker.

CP says the new solution combines satellite communications with the train's existing mobile network systems, helping to provide a more stable internet connection throughout the journey.

In a statement cited by Publituris, CP explained that the goal is to offer passengers faster, more reliable and lower-latency internet, creating a better digital experience while travelling. The company added that the technology is designed to strengthen connectivity in areas where mobile coverage is limited or where signal quality tends to drop.

Early results have been positive. According to CP, Starlink accounted for around 19 per cent of total internet traffic recorded onboard during the initial testing phase and played a particularly important role in sections of the route where terrestrial mobile networks performed less effectively.

The pilot project is still underway, with CP continuing to collect technical and operational data to assess the solution's stability, coverage and overall performance. As reported by Publituris, the company will use these results to determine whether the technology could eventually be implemented on a larger scale.

CP President Pedro Moreira said the trial is another step in updating the company's services and ensuring passengers stay connected throughout their journey.