United Airlines has received approval from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to equip its first aircraft with Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite broadband service, aimed at providing free in-flight Wi-Fi for passengers.
The big picture: The Chicago-based airline announced that its first commercial flight featuring Starlink Wi-Fi services is scheduled for May, marking a significant milestone just eight months after finalizing a deal with SpaceX’s Starlink.
- Passengers on the inaugural flight will experience the new technology on a United Express Embraer 175, promising a unique in-flight experience with enhanced Wi-Fi capabilities.
- United Airlines plans to offer passengers a range of free in-flight entertainment options, including streaming services, shopping, and gaming, facilitated by internet speeds 50 times faster than those currently available on regional aircraft.
- Access to Starlink Wi-Fi will be complimentary for all passengers who hold a MileagePlus membership, a loyalty program provided by the airline.
- The airline is set to install Starlink technology on its Embraer 175 aircraft, with a target of completing installations on approximately 40 regional jets each month and outfitting the entire regional fleet of 300 planes by the end of next year.
Go deeper: United Airlines aims to seek FAA approval for implementing Starlink technology on over 16 different aircraft models, demonstrating a commitment to enhancing the in-flight connectivity experience for passengers.
What they’re saying: “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, United Vice President of Digital Technology, in a statement. “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.”
