United Airlines Takes Flight with Starlink Wi-Fi on First Boeing 737

United Airlines plane with Starlink Wi-Fi.

United Airlines is set to enhance the in-flight experience for its passengers by introducing high-speed Starlink Wi-Fi on its first Boeing 737 aircraft in October. This move signifies a major step in the airline’s broader plan to equip its entire fleet with this advanced satellite internet service, promising faster and free connectivity for MileagePlus members.

Key Takeaways

  • United Airlines receives FAA approval to deploy Starlink Wi-Fi on its Boeing 737-800 fleet.
  • The first Starlink-equipped mainline flight is scheduled for October 15, 2025, departing from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR).
  • The airline has already completed Starlink installations on over half of its United Express regional jet fleet.
  • United aims to offer this high-caliber, complimentary Wi-Fi service to all MileagePlus members across its fleet.

Expanding Connectivity

United Airlines has been progressively rolling out Starlink Wi-Fi, initially focusing on its United Express regional jets. The airline announced that more than half of this regional fleet has already been outfitted with the technology. This expansion now extends to larger mainline aircraft, with the Boeing 737-800 being the first type to receive FAA approval for Starlink integration.

The first mainline flight featuring Starlink Wi-Fi is slated for October 15, 2025, originating from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR). This initiative is part of United’s commitment to providing a superior inflight experience, allowing for activities such as live streaming, productive work, and gaming.

A Fleet-Wide Upgrade

United’s ambitious plan involves equipping over 1,000 aircraft with Starlink technology. This partnership with SpaceX positions United to offer a significant upgrade in inflight internet service, aiming to match or exceed the connectivity standards set by competitors. The airline views this as a crucial step in staying competitive and meeting customer expectations for seamless internet access.

The Starlink Advantage

Starlink, known for its high-speed, low-latency broadband internet, offers a substantial improvement over traditional inflight Wi-Fi. Passengers can expect reliable connectivity for multiple devices, enabling them to stay connected, entertained, and productive during their journeys. The rollout is expected to continue over the next few years, with plans to eventually include wide-body aircraft like the Boeing 787-9 in early 2026.

Sources

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