United Airlines is expediting its plans to equip its aircraft with Starlink, SpaceX’s advanced inflight internet service, bringing passengers high-speed, low-latency Wi-Fi sooner than initially anticipated.
Testing of Starlink connectivity is set to begin in February, with the United Embraer E-175 jet as the first commercial flight featuring the service and scheduled for this spring. United aims to outfit its entire two-cabin regional fleet with Starlink by the end of 2025, while its first mainline aircraft will also be equipped before the end of the year. Looking ahead, United plans to expand Starlink across its entire fleet.
United’s Starlink rollout follows a groundbreaking agreement with SpaceX in September 2024, the largest of its kind in the airline industry. The partnership will enable passengers to experience ground-level internet speeds at cruising altitudes. Gate-to-gate connectivity will be available on personal devices and seatback screens, positioning United as a leader in inflight technology among major U.S. airlines.
"We have a lot planned for our MileagePlus members this year and adding Starlink to as many planes as we can—as quickly as we can—is at the center of it all," said Richard Nunn, CEO of United MileagePlus. "It's not only going to revolutionize the experience of flying United, but it's also going to unlock tons of new partnerships and benefits for our members that otherwise wouldn't be possible."
MileagePlus loyalty program members will receive complimentary access to the service, which promises enhanced inflight entertainment options such as streaming, gaming and online shopping. Applying for a MileagePlus membership is free and travelers can sign up here.
