United Airlines Partners with Musk's Starlink for In-flight Internet

United Airlines Partners with Musk's Starlink for In-flight Internet

United Airlines, headquartered in Chicago, is one of the largest airlines in the world. It provides passengers with an excellent in-flight experience, including entertainment, meals, spacious seats, and Wi-Fi.

As per the latest update, United Airlines has announced its partnership with Starlink in-flight internet, starting this spring. The testing of Starlink satellite internet will begin this February before being offered on Embraer E-175 aircraft. The Wi-Fi service will be available on the regional fleet; however, it is not free for all. 

United Airlines Starlink Service 

On 5th Jan 2025, the airline announced the link-up with Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite internet system. The service will be available in its two-cabin regional aircraft. The first aircraft with Starlink satellite connectivity is expected to be ready for major routes by the end of 2025. There is a twist: this won’t be a free-to-use Wi-Fi service for all. The Starlink internet will only be available free of charge to MileagePlus members. Passengers can join the free MileagePlus membership and get advantage of many in-flight services, including Starlink Internet access. As per the deal between United Airlines and Starlink, the internet service will be available for around 1,000 aircraft. 

What is Starlink?

Starlink is a satellite-based broadband internet service founded by Elon Musk. The broadband service is developed by SpaceX, Space Exploration Technologies Corp. Using a constellation of small satellites in low Earth orbit (LOW), it aims to provide fast internet access. The service usually covers remote areas with no traditional internet options or limited access to Wi-Fi. Starlink has partnered with many industries and airlines, such as United Airlines, to expand its service. This move has helped Starlink to expand beyond household and rural use. The internet service provider has also signed an agreement with Hawaiian Airlines and regional carrier JSX.