United Airlines set to roll out Starlink Wi-Fi in May, coming after receiving the nod from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)

United Airlines to Revolutionize In-Flight Wi-Fi with SpaceX's Starlink

United Airlines is set to revolutionize in-flight Wi-Fi with the introduction of SpaceX's Starlink system. The airline has received FAA approval for its first aircraft equipped with the innovative technology, marking a significant step towards a more connected sky.

The Starlink system offers several advantages over traditional satellite systems. Its lighter weight and smaller size make it easier to maintain, reducing fuel consumption and contributing to improved reliability. The quicker installation process further enhances reliability, even in adverse weather conditions.

United plans to install Starlink systems on over 40 regional jets per month, starting with the regional United Express Embraer E-175 aircraft from May 15, 2025. The goal is to have more than 300 two-cabin regional aircraft fully equipped with Starlink by the end of the year. Beyond regional jets, United aims to equip its mainline fleet with Starlink in the following years, although exact dates for full fleet coverage have not been announced.

The FAA is working with United Airlines and SpaceX to certify more than 16 additional aircraft types, including larger mainline jets, in the coming years.

The benefits for passengers are substantial. With Starlink, passengers can access the fastest in-flight Wi-Fi currently available, offering low latency and high speeds similar to ground internet. This enhanced connectivity enables streaming, messaging, gaming, and other online activities during flights, significantly improving the passenger experience compared to previous systems. United’s Starlink Wi-Fi represents a major upgrade in inflight connectivity, offering reliable and fast internet, especially on regional flights where service has traditionally been limited or slower.

United Airlines will provide free access to Starlink's high-speed Wi-Fi to its MileagePlus members, its customer loyalty program. This move is expected to bring the best in-flight experience in the sky to more people, as stated by Grant Milstead, United's Vice President of Digital Technology.

Once fully implemented, Starlink will offer high-speed, low-latency Wi-Fi capable of up to 250 megabits per second (Mbps), which is 50 times faster than typical speeds currently available on regional aircraft.

With Starlink, United Airlines is set to redefine inflight connectivity, offering a more reliable, faster, and more enjoyable in-flight experience for its passengers.

[1] United Airlines Press Release

[2] SpaceX Press Release

[4] CNBC Article

United Airlines set to roll out Starlink Wi-Fi in May, coming after receiving the nod from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)