United Airlines has unveiled an accelerated timeline for deploying Starlink, SpaceX’s groundbreaking satellite internet service, across its fleet, enhancing the inflight experience for travelers worldwide. The airline announced that its first Starlink-enabled commercial flight is now slated for spring 2025, with the entire two-cabin regional fleet set to be equipped by year’s end. In addition, United expects its first mainline aircraft with Starlink to take off before the end of 2025.
Starlink access will be free for all MileagePlus® members, offering passengers high-speed, low-latency internet connectivity for activities such as streaming, shopping, and gaming. Membership to the loyalty program is free, and travelers can join via United’s website.
“We have a lot planned for our MileagePlus members this year and adding Starlink to as many planes as we can – as quickly as we can – is at the center of it all. It’s not only going to revolutionize the experience of flying United, but it’s also going to unlock tons of new partnerships and benefits for our members that otherwise wouldn’t be possible,” said Richard Nunn, CEO of United MileagePlus.
United’s September 2024 agreement with SpaceX marked the largest deal of its kind, solidifying plans to equip its entire fleet with Starlink. The service will deliver seamless, gate-to-gate connectivity, allowing passengers to use seatback screens and personal devices simultaneously for high-quality inflight entertainment.
MileagePlus Enhancements
MileagePlus, recently ranked as the world’s best airline loyalty program, offers several standout features:
- Free membership and no fees to earn miles.
- Miles that never expire.
- No blackout dates for award seats—if a seat is available, it can be purchased with miles.
- The ability to use miles for nearly all onboard purchases, including seats, Wi-Fi, and snacks.
- Family and friends can pool miles into a joint account.
In 2024, over three million MileagePlus customers redeemed miles for flights, equating to an average of 31,000 seats daily — enough to fill 100 Boeing 777 aircraft. With Starlink’s rollout, United is poised to set a new standard for inflight connectivity, catering to the growing demand for seamless digital experiences at 35,000 feet.