United Airlines Advances Starlink Connectivity Timeline

First commercial flight with Starlink service expected in spring. The complete regional fleet will be equipped by the end of 2025, with the first mainline plane to follow.

United Airlines has revealed plans to expedite the introduction of Starlink, touted as the fastest and most reliable internet service available in the skies.

The airline is set to begin testing Starlink next month, aiming for the first commercial flight to take place this spring with an Embraer E-175 aircraft. Additionally, United plans to outfit its full two-cabin regional fleet by year-end, while a mainline Starlink-equipped aircraft is expected to begin operations before the year concludes.

United’s ambition is to integrate Starlink across its entire fleet. Significantly, access to this service will be complimentary for all MileagePlus members, offering transformative in-flight entertainment options including streaming, shopping, and gaming. Membership in MileagePlus is also free, with sign-ups available on united.com/starlink.

Richard Nunn, CEO of United MileagePlus, stated, “We have extensive plans for our MileagePlus members this year, and the rapid integration of Starlink is a pivotal part of that. It’s set to revolutionize the flying experience and unlock numerous new partnerships and benefits for our members.”

Last September, United secured a monumental agreement with SpaceX, establishing the largest deal of its kind in the sector to equip its entire fleet with Starlink. In just a few months, airline customers can expect to enjoy the same high-speed, low-latency internet experience they have on the ground, now available throughout their journey in the air.