
United Airlines is speeding up its plan to offer SpaceX’s Starlink Wi-Fi, bringing faster internet to passengers. Starlink, known for its high-speed satellite internet, promises download speeds of 40–220Mbps and upload speeds of 8–25Mbps, enabling streaming, gaming, and video calls in the air.
This move aims to transform the in-flight experience, catering to growing traveller expectations for fast, free Wi-Fi. The airline originally planned to begin testing Starlink this year, with flights launching later.
Notably, United says testing will start next month, and the first Starlink-enabled flight will take off in spring 2025. The test plane will be an Embraer E-175, used for regional flights with up to 88 passengers.
Moreover, by the end of 2025, United hopes to equip its entire two-cabin regional fleet with Starlink Wi-Fi. It also plans to launch its first mainline Starlink-enabled plane before the end of this year.
The ultimate goal is to outfit nearly 1,000 planes, making United a leader among U.S. airlines in adopting SpaceX technology.
Currently, United works with four Wi-Fi providers, including Intelsat, Panasonic, and Viasat. However, Starlink offers a transformative experience.
While other airlines like Hawaiian and JSX are also adding Starlink, United is the first major U.S. airline to commit to the technology.
Additionally, MileagePlus members will get free access to Starlink Wi-Fi. “It’s not only going to transform flying United, but it’ll unlock new partnerships and benefits for our members,” said United MileagePlus CEO Richard Nunn.