United Airlines is rolling out free high-speed in-flight Wi-Fi to its loyalty rewards members through a partnership with Starlink, the satellite internet provider operated by Elon Musk’s SpaceX.
In a recent announcement on X (formerly Twitter), United Airlines confirmed that the first aircraft is now equipped with Starlink, marking the beginning of a fleet-wide rollout.
The airline expects to install the system on over 40 aircraft per month, with plans to fully outfit its two-cabin regional fleet by the end of 2025.
High-Speed Internet Now Available at 35,000 Feet
United’s partnership with Starlink, first announced in 2023, aims to enhance passenger connectivity with fast, reliable in-flight Wi-Fi.
The airline now plans to launch its first Starlink-enabled commercial flight this spring on an Embraer E-175 aircraft, followed by a gradual expansion to mainline aircraft later in the year.
According to United Airlines’ official website , the goal is to offer seamless, satellite-based internet access across all aircraft, allowing passengers to stream videos, conduct video calls, and browse the web without interruptions.
Starlink’s Impact on Airline Connectivity
Starlink’s low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites provide faster, lower-latency internet compared to traditional airline Wi-Fi systems.
The Federal Communications Commission approved SpaceX’s application for Starlink’s aviation use in 2022, paving the way for widespread airline adoption.
For United Airlines, the Starlink system is expected to:
- Eliminate in-flight connectivity dead zones.
- Provide significantly faster internet speeds than current satellite services.
- Improve the passenger experience for business and leisure travelers alike.
Expanding Free Wi-Fi Across the Fleet
As part of its initiative, United Airlines is prioritizing loyalty rewards members for free Wi-Fi access, with plans to expand availability in the future. The airline expects that by the end of 2025, most regional aircraft will feature Starlink connectivity, with mainline aircraft installations beginning shortly thereafter.
United’s Chief Customer Officer emphasized the company’s commitment to enhancing the passenger experience, stating that fast, free internet will become a standard feature on United flights.
What Passengers Can Expect
- Initial rollout begins spring 2025 on Embraer E-175 aircraft.
- Fleet-wide installations will continue through 2025 at a rate of 40+ aircraft per month.
- Mainline United aircraft will be equipped by late 2025.
- Loyalty rewards members will receive free Starlink access.
For more details on Starlink-powered in-flight Wi-Fi, visit United Airlines’ official website or check updates from the Federal Aviation Administration regarding new airline technology regulations.
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