United Airlines has announced a new partnership with SpaceX’s Starlink to provide free, high-speed Wi-Fi to passengers across its entire fleet, including both mainline and regional aircraft. The collaboration, will provide passengers with reliable, low-latency internet access from gate to gate.
This initiative will enable United’s customers to experience connectivity while in the air, similar to the quality of internet service that passengers enjoy on the ground. Through Starlink’s satellite technology, passengers will be able to stream live TV, access social media, play online games, shop, and more using either seatback screens or their personal devices
United plans to equip over 1,000 aircraft with Starlink, starting with testing in early 2025 and passenger availability by the end of that year. The service will be free for all passengers, and United will be the first airline to offer Starlink Wi-Fi on a large scale.
Global Connectivity Through Starlink
Starlink, operated by SpaceX, leverages advanced satellite technology to provide internet access worldwide, including over oceans and remote regions. This broad reach will benefit United, which operates the largest transatlantic and transpacific flight networks. Passengers on United flights will soon have uninterrupted access to high-speed internet, even while flying over traditionally hard-to-reach areas.
United’s CEO, Scott Kirby, highlighted the significance of the partnership, noting, “Everything you can do on the ground, you’ll soon be able to do onboard a United plane at 35,000 feet, just about anywhere in the world.” Gwynne Shotwell, SpaceX President and COO, added, “With Starlink onboard your United flight, you’ll have access to the world’s most advanced high-speed internet from gate to gate, and all the miles in between.”
Enhanced In-Flight Experiences
The Starlink Wi-Fi service will offer a variety of enhanced experiences for United’s passengers, including:
- Live Streaming: Access to personal streaming services, live TV, shows, and movies without delays or buffering.
- Work Productivity: Real-time document editing, file uploads, and downloads to support remote work during flights.
- E-Commerce: The ability to shop, schedule deliveries, and make reservations online while in the air.
- Gaming: Access to live gaming and streaming services.
- Multiple Devices: Passengers will be able to connect multiple devices to the service under a single user account.
Passengers will also benefit from United’s growing number of seatback screens, which are available across nearly 100,000 seats and are being expanded as part of the airline’s ongoing fleet upgrades. These seatback screens will offer content in over 20 languages, and the new United signature interiors include features such as Bluetooth connectivity, power outlets at every seat, and larger overhead bins.
Benefits for Frontline Employees
In addition to passengers, United’s frontline employees—including pilots, flight attendants, and technicians—will also benefit from Starlink’s capabilities. The connectivity will allow these employees to remain connected and access the tools they need to operate more effectively, even in remote locations or during situations where traditional services may be disrupted.
Continued Innovation at United
This latest development further solidifies United’s reputation as a leader in airline innovation. The airline has rolled out a series of customer-focused initiatives, such as the ConnectionSaver technology, free family seating, real-time text updates, and automatic rebooking assistance. United also boasts one of the most downloaded airline apps, which now includes real-time boarding pass access and gate information.
United’s commitment to enhancing the customer experience and embracing cutting-edge technology is evident through this partnership with SpaceX’s Starlink, positioning the airline at the forefront of inflight connectivity advancements.
Analysis
I find this news exciting and innovative. If all goes to plan this will make UA the first airline legacy to truly have free Wi-Fi across the whole fleet beating Delta. While United airlines does not have as extensive of a regional network as Delta. It’s still is exciting to see regional flights get free Wi-Fi.
I’m also interested in seeing how stable the starlink system is. I was once trying to book a plane ticket on another major airline Wi-Fi. It ended up being impossible. I gave up and booked the next day.
United Airlines joins to U.S. airlines Hawaiian airlines & JSX that operate star link on flights.
United has been on a roll with all the tech innovations. I’m excited to see what’s else United is working on!
