United Airlines Introduces Starlink Wi-Fi: A Game-Changer for U.S. Air Travel

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United Airlines is setting a new standard for inflight connectivity with the introduction of Starlink Wi-Fi across its fleet. This breakthrough marks the first time a major U.S. carrier offers high-speed, low-latency internet on mainline flights, delivering an experience comparable to what customers enjoy at home.
United plans to install Starlink on up to 15 Boeing 737-800 aircraft each month. By year-end, the airline expects to certify an additional aircraft type for Starlink connectivity. Ultimately, United will equip every 737-800 with Starlink antennas and install nearly 2,940 antennas across its entire fleet.
Starlink Wi-Fi is free for United MileagePlus® members, and customers will receive a notification before their flight if it’s equipped with Starlink.
“We’re committed to raising the bar when it comes to the onboard experience, and with Starlink, we’re changing how people fly,” said David Kinzelman, United’s Chief Customer Officer. “Whether it’s catching a live game, streaming an award show or working, United customers won’t miss a beat when they’re onboard a Starlink-equipped flight.”
United’s Starlink is breaking the Wi-Fi barrier, and the new service unlocks a new way to travel with experiences like:
  • Live streaming: Whether you catch a live sports event, watch a favorite movie or show and more, passengers can access their personal streaming services without buffering, lag or need to download in advance.
  • Real-time work collaboration: Download/upload files, share and edit documents, and stay in sync with your team in real-time.
  • Gaming at 30,000 feet: Pick up where you left off and play live games and follow along on live gaming streaming services.
  • Seamless shopping: Stay connected online, schedule grocery delivery and make restaurant and travel reservations all from the comfort of your seat.
  • Connect multiple devices at once: Customers will be able to access Starlink on all devices at once, like their seatback screen, phone, tablet, computer and more.

The rollout of Starlink across United’s fleet aligns with the airline’s plans to have 300,000+ seatback screens across its fleet – more than any other U.S. airline – as it takes delivery of hundreds of new airplanes and retrofits existing aircraft. Over the last several years, United has invested billions of dollars in enhancing the customer experience.

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