United Airlines is on the verge of enhancing its in-flight connectivity as it prepares to introduce free Wi-Fi through Elon Musk’s Starlink network. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has granted United approval for its first aircraft outfitted with this groundbreaking technology, signaling an exciting development for air travel.

Details of the First Flight

The inaugural commercial flight featuring Starlink will operate on a United Express Embraer 175. This milestone comes just eight months after United reached an agreement with SpaceX to incorporate Starlink’s broadband services into its fleet.

Grant Milstead, Vice President of Digital Technology at United, noted, “We know customers are going to love this experience, and we think it will give them yet another reason to choose United.” He highlighted the airline’s commitment to ensuring an upgraded in-flight experience for all passengers.

Enhanced In-Flight Experience

Passengers will enjoy a “game-changing” approach to in-flight entertainment, with streaming capabilities that far exceed current services. According to United, internet speeds could reach levels up to 50 times faster than those typically available on regional jets.

All MileagePlus members, who can sign up for free, will have complimentary access to these services, allowing them to fully utilize features such as streaming platforms, online shopping, and gaming during their flights.

Future Plans for Starlink Integration

United Airlines aims to roll out Starlink technology across its regional fleet, targeting approximately 40 installations of the Embraer 175 models each month. The airline plans to complete installations on all 300 regional jets by the end of next year.

In addition to this rollout, United is collaborating with Starlink to obtain FAA approval for more than 16 different aircraft models, further expanding its technological capabilities in the sky.

Quotes from United Executives

Richard Nunn, CEO of United MileagePlus, remarked, “We have a lot planned for our MileagePlus members this year…adding Starlink to as many planes as we can – as quickly as we can – is at the center of it all.” He emphasized the significant impact this technology will have on customer experience and potential partnerships.

United CEO Scott Kirby also expressed enthusiasm for the upgrade, explaining, “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.”