United, SpaceX Ink Deal for Free In-Flight Wi-Fi

‍DALLAS — United Airlines (UA) has signed a landmark deal with SpaceX to provide Starlink’s high-speed, low-latency Wi-Fi across its entire mainline and regional fleet. 

The move will offer passengers free, reliable internet access, transforming the in-flight experience with live TV, streaming services, online shopping, and gaming features.

The installation of Starlink on more than 1,000 United aircraft will begin in 2025, with testing starting early that year. 

The service, which will be available on seatback screens and personal devices, will allow passengers to enjoy seamless internet access from gate to gate, providing connectivity comparable to ground-level services.

United’s collaboration with SpaceX will make it the first airline to offer Starlink at this scale. Leveraging advanced satellite technology, Starlink will provide robust coverage over previously unreachable areas, including oceans and remote regions. 

The carrier says the partnership underscores its commitment to enhancing customer experience. CEO Scott Kirby emphasizes that passengers will soon be able to do everything onboard that they can on the ground.

Passengers will benefit from the ability to stream content, work in real-time, shop online, and engage in live gaming without disruptions. The Starlink service will also support multiple device connections under a single user, making it easier for travelers to stay connected.

United’s app will also allow customers to access real-time flight information and live support in the air.

Not Just for Entertainment

The new connectivity will also enhance UA's operations, providing pilots, flight attendants, and staff uninterrupted access to vital tools, even in remote locations or outages. 

The initiative is part of UA’s broader efforts to upgrade its fleet. Plans include new seat-back screens, Bluetooth connectivity, and expanded power options, which will further enrich the inflight experience.

The airline's partnership with SpaceX marks a major step forward in aviation technology. It sets a new standard for in-flight connectivity and reinforces UA’s leadership in the industry.

Hawaiian Airlines (HA) became the first major US airline to roll out complimentary Wi-Fi using Starlink on its commercial flights in February 2024. The service is available on flights between the Hawaiian islands, continental US, Asia, and Oceania.

JSX, a public charter operator in the United States, was the first airline to implement Starlink connectivity in late 2022. It offers free Wi-Fi to passengers on its fleet of Embraer Regional Jets.

Upcoming Implementations

Qatar Airways (QR) has announced plans to introduce Starlink and free internet access on its flights. The airline aims to provide speeds of up to 350 megabits per second for its passengers.

In January, Latvian carrier airBaltic (BT) signed up to install Starlink across its A220-300 fleet, becoming the first European carrier to commit to it. Service is expected to begin this year. Japanese low-cost carrier ZIPAIR (ZG), which operates Boeing 787-8 aircraft, has signed up for Starlink, with service expected in "2024 & Beyond."

Air New Zealand (NZ) plans to trial free Starlink internet on its domestic aircraft, starting with ATR turboprop aircraft and an A320 in late 2024. NZ aims to roll out the service to other aircraft in their fleet in 2025. Finally, Canadian airline WestJet (WS) plans to implement Starlink on select flights starting in December 2024.

As Starlink continues to expand its aviation services, more airlines are likely to adopt this technology in the coming years, potentially revolutionizing in-flight Wi-Fi experiences for passengers worldwide.