Starlink’s satellite internet, a SpaceX project, is becoming a reality in air travel.
United Airlines, one of the largest airlines in the U.S., has received approval from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to install Starlink terminals on its aircraft. This new feature promises a significant improvement in in-flight internet connectivity, offering faster, more reliable service that will be available to all members of the MileagePlus loyalty program.
Starlink Aviation, the version of the satellite internet designed for airlines, was introduced over two years ago. Although it initially seemed too expensive—with hardware costing $150,000 and monthly fees ranging from $12,500 to $25,000—its advantages in speed and reliability surpass the competition. While traditional in-flight internet services offer speeds from a few hundred kbps to tens of Mbps, Starlink promises speeds of up to 250 Mbps.
That’s nearly 50 times faster than the current Wi-Fi connection on regional flights. United Airlines plans to equip its Embraer E-175 aircraft with Starlink terminals, with the first commercial flights featuring this connection scheduled for May 2025. The FAA has already issued a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) for this aircraft type, allowing installations to begin.
The company plans to equip approximately 40 aircraft per month, and by the end of 2025, all 300 Embraer E-175 aircraft should be equipped with Starlink technology. One of the biggest benefits for passengers is that the Starlink connection will be free for all members of the MileagePlus loyalty program. The program is free to join and allows travelers to enjoy numerous benefits, including high-speed internet on board.
Passengers will be able to stream movies, shop online, play games, and use other services without any additional fees. MileagePlus is considered one of the best loyalty programs in the world. In addition to free connectivity, it offers the ability to earn miles that never expire and use them to purchase tickets, Wi-Fi, snacks, and other services. With this move, United Airlines aims to strengthen its market position and attract more passengers.
United Airlines has ambitious plans to expand Starlink technology across its entire fleet, which includes over 1,000 aircraft. After successfully equipping its regional Embraer E-175 jets, the airline plans to obtain approval to install Starlink on 16 other aircraft types, including its mainline fleet. The process involves thorough testing and certification to ensure maximum reliability and safety. United Airlines is not the only company partnering with Starlink.
Other partners include Hawaiian Airlines and regional carrier JSX. In Canada, WestJet Airlines has been attempting to implement Starlink but has faced several issues and complaints from passengers. The implementation of Starlink on United Airlines aircraft represents a significant step forward for in-flight internet. The technology is revolutionizing how passengers use the internet during flights and is setting a new standard for the airline industry.
Starlink’s satellite internet has the potential to become a standard feature in air travel, improving connectivity and comfort for passengers worldwide. For United Airlines, this is an opportunity to show that innovation and customer satisfaction are top priorities. The future of in-flight internet is clear—faster, more reliable, and more accessible than ever before.