United Airlines has announced it will begin using SpaceX's Starlink for inflight Wi-Fi, setting the stage for what could be a significant upgrade for passengers eager for reliable connectivity. This move positions United as the first major U.S. airline to adopt Elon Musk's satellite internet service, with the rollout expected to start as early as spring 2024.
Initially, only members of United's loyalty program, MileagePlus, will have free access to the service, departing from United's earlier intentions to offer complimentary Wi-Fi to all passengers. This adjustment appears aimed at incentivizing potential new members of the airline's loyalty program, effectively using the alluring promise of faster internet as bait.
The first aircraft to receive Starlink’s inflight service will be the Embraer SA E175, with plans for the entire fleet of two-class regional jets to be equipped by the end of this year. United officials have confirmed their commitment to eventually make Starlink available on all their aircraft, which is expected to include mainline jets before the end of 2025. This timeline is markedly accelerated compared to previous projections, which anticipated testing to begin earlier this year.
The partnership, first announced last September, marks a strategic collaboration for both United Airlines and SpaceX. Airlines have been increasingly pressed to improve their inflight Wi-Fi offerings, which have historically been plagued by unreliable and slow connections. The integration of Starlink promises to deliver faster, more reliable internet access on flights, closely mirroring the experience users expect on the ground.
With Starlink, United will be providing gate-to-gate service, allowing passengers access to online activities such as streaming and shopping. Users will be able to connect multiple devices simultaneously and manage tasks like downloading, editing, and sending documents in real-time.
While details about pricing for non-loyalty program members remain to be disclosed closer to the first commercial flight, it is worth noting where Starlink stands within the broader market. Notably, other airlines including Hawaiian Holdings and JSX have also integrated Starlink services. Internationally, airlines like Qatar Airways, Air Baltic, Air New Zealand, and ZIPAIR Tokyo have either adopted or are planning to implement Starlink services.
Reports also suggest Starlink is currently negotiating with British Airways' parent company, IAG SA, to outfit its fleet, indicating the growing interest and trust surrounding SpaceX’s internet-from-space initiative.
The Starlink technology utilizes a network of thousands of satellites stationed in low Earth orbit to provide expansive internet coverage across various regions, significantly surpassing the capabilities of traditional inflight Wi-Fi solutions.
The progression of connectivity options available to travelers is clear. From its anticipated launch date for inflight service to feature sets promising faster and more reliable connection, United Airlines, by welcoming Starlink, is setting new expectations for air travel. This partnership could redefine inflight experiences, particularly for those who rely on consistent connectivity for work or leisure.