United Airlines has revealed its plan to introduce SpaceX’s Starlink satellite internet across its entire fleet, starting with regional jets this spring.
The first phase of the rollout will begin with United Express two-cabin regional aircraft, targeting models like the Embraer E175, which frequently serve shorter domestic routes. The integration of Starlink aims to address long-standing issues with inflight connectivity, especially on regional jets that have historically relied on outdated or unavailable Wi-Fi systems.
United confirmed the timeline on its website, stating, “We’re going to start adding Starlink to our fleet this spring and have a full rollout planned over the next few years.”
A New Era for Inflight Connectivity
United Airlines operates one of the largest fleets among U.S. carriers, with nearly 1,000 planes, but its inflight Wi-Fi offerings have often been criticized for their limitations. The airline currently uses a mix of providers, including Intelsat (formerly Gogo), Viasat, and Panasonic. While these systems provide some level of connectivity, passengers often face coverage gaps, inconsistent speeds, and limited functionality.
Regional jets have been especially underserved, with many models relying on air-to-ground systems that function only above 10,000 feet. Others, such as the Bombardier CRJ-200 and Embraer ERJ145, lack Wi-Fi altogether.
Starlink’s integration promises to overhaul this experience. By leveraging low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites, the technology offers significantly lower latency and higher speeds compared to traditional geostationary satellite systems. United’s deployment of Starlink is expected to provide uninterrupted internet access across domestic and international routes.
What Starlink Brings to the Table
SpaceX’s Starlink technology has transformed connectivity expectations with its global network of LEO satellites. Positioned between 200 and 1,200 miles above Earth, these satellites deliver faster data speeds and reduced latency compared to geostationary satellites, which orbit at 22,000 miles.
The global satellite network addresses one of the biggest challenges for current inflight Wi-Fi providers: consistent coverage across all regions. United’s current providers, such as Viasat and Intelsat, often face limitations depending on the flight path. For example, Viasat covers North America, the North Atlantic, and Europe but may leave passengers offline in other regions.
Starlink eliminates such gaps by offering global coverage, ensuring a seamless experience regardless of the aircraft’s location. This advantage is particularly important for international travelers who rely on uninterrupted internet access for work or leisure.
Passengers on Starlink-enabled United flights can anticipate download speeds between 40 and 220 Mbps and upload speeds of 8 to 25 Mbps. These speeds support modern digital demands, such as video streaming, video conferencing, and online gaming—activities that have often been unreliable or impossible with existing inflight internet systems.
Free Wi-Fi for MileagePlus Members
United’s rollout of Starlink comes with a significant incentive for travelers: free internet access for all members of its MileagePlus loyalty program. Non-members can join the program during their flight or before boarding to take advantage of this service.
This move aligns United with industry trends. In 2023, Delta Air Lines introduced free Wi-Fi for loyalty members using older systems and expanded the service in 2024 to cover 90% of its domestic mainline fleet. However, United’s decision to adopt Starlink places it at the forefront of inflight internet innovation, offering speeds and reliability that set a new benchmark for U.S. carriers.
United’s Phased Rollout Plan
United plans to complete the rollout for its two-cabin regional jets by the end of 2025. Larger mainline aircraft, including Airbus and Boeing models, will begin receiving Starlink installations later this year.
Single-cabin regional jets, such as the Bombardier CRJ-200 and Embraer ERJ145, are also slated for upgrades, although United has yet to specify a timeline. Despite these challenges, the airline has reiterated its commitment to equipping its entire fleet with Starlink connectivity.
United emphasized that it aims to provide all passengers with a high-speed internet experience, regardless of their flight path.
The demand for inflight connectivity has grown exponentially as travelers increasingly expect the same level of internet access in the air as they enjoy on the ground. With mobile devices becoming indispensable for streaming, work, and communication, airlines are under pressure to deliver faster, more reliable Wi-Fi.
United’s adoption of Starlink is a direct response to these shifting expectations. By prioritizing high-speed, free internet for MileagePlus members, the airline aims to enhance customer satisfaction and set a new standard for the industry.
