United Airlines to Launch Starlink Wi-Fi on Regional Flights
United Airlines has received approval from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for its first aircraft equipped with Starlink internet, marking a significant milestone in the airline’s partnership with SpaceX. The FAA granted a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) for the aircraft on March 31, 2025, setting the stage for United’s inaugural commercial flight with Starlink Wi-Fi to take place on a United Express Embraer 175 in May 2025.
The announcement comes after United revealed earlier this month that it had begun the process of equipping its regional fleet with SpaceX’s Starlink Wi-Fi system. United has ramped up the deployment, with plans to install the technology on approximately 40 aircraft each month. The airline expects its entire two-cabin regional fleet, which consists of over 300 aircraft, to be fully outfitted with Starlink by the end of 2025.
As part of its efforts to ensure the smooth launch of the service, United will conduct a beta test of the new technology on select flights between now and the first official customer flight. This testing phase is intended to ensure that every aspect of the Starlink Wi-Fi system delivers a high-quality onboard experience for passengers.
“We know customers are going to love this experience, and we think it will give them yet another reason to choose United,” said Grant Milstead, Vice President of Digital Technology at United. “We’re working closely with Starlink and the FAA to finish installs on our regional fleet this year and bring the best inflight experience in the sky to more and more people.”
United’s plans to offer Starlink Wi-Fi access to its passengers are part of a broader strategy to enhance the inflight experience, with Starlink access being provided free to members of the airline’s MileagePlus loyalty program. The airline first announced its partnership with SpaceX in September 2024, aiming to install Starlink connectivity across its entire fleet of aircraft.
By the end of 2025, passengers flying on United’s regional aircraft will be able to enjoy high-speed internet access powered by Starlink, ensuring a more seamless and connected journey. The rollout of this new technology underscores United’s commitment to enhancing its in-flight services, providing passengers with faster, more reliable Wi-Fi on regional flights.
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