United Airlines is set to revolutionize inflight connectivity with a landmark partnership with SpaceX, becoming the first U.S. airline to provide free, high-speed Wi-Fi via Starlink on its entire mainline and regional fleet. This move will allow passengers to access fast, reliable internet throughout their flight, bringing the convenience of ground-level internet speeds to 35,000 feet.
This collaboration marks the largest agreement of its kind in the airline industry. United customers can look forward to seamless gate-to-gate Wi-Fi, enabling access to live TV, streaming services, social media, and even gaming. Passengers will be able to connect multiple devices to the Wi-Fi, which will be available both on personal devices and seatback screens. Testing is scheduled to begin in early 2025, with the first Starlink-enabled flights expected later that year.
The airline plans to equip over 1,000 planes with Starlink, setting itself apart from competitors by offering this free service on a global scale. Starlink’s advanced satellite network, engineered by SpaceX, is capable of delivering internet access in areas previously out of reach, such as polar regions and remote oceans. This makes United the first carrier to commit to such extensive Wi-Fi coverage.
“Everything you can do on the ground, you’ll soon be able to do onboard a United plane at 35,000 feet, just about anywhere in the world. This connectivity opens the door for an even better inflight entertainment experience, in every seatback — more content, that’s more personalized. United’s culture of innovation is, once again, delivering big for our customers,” said United CEO Scott Kirby.
Gwynne Shotwell, SpaceX President, echoed Kirby’s excitement, stating that passengers will enjoy high-speed internet from “gate to gate and all the miles in between.”
United’s decision to introduce Starlink Wi-Fi comes as part of the airline’s broader strategy to lead the industry in digital innovation. The new service will not only improve the passenger experience but also benefit United’s employees, allowing them to serve customers better using enhanced onboard mobile capabilities.
United continues to set benchmarks with services such as family seating, AI-powered real-time updates, and the industry’s first loyalty miles pooling program. The addition of free inflight Wi-Fi will further cement United’s position as a leader in aviation innovation.