United Airlines has recently made headlines with the approval of its first Starlink-equipped planes by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This milestone paves the way for a new era of in-flight connectivity, with the first commercial flight featuring Starlink Wi-Fi scheduled for May 2025.
The FAA has given the green light for United Airlines to equip its Embraer 175 aircraft with Starlink technology, issuing a Supplemental Type Certificate for the implementation. The airline’s inaugural commercial flight with a Starlink-equipped plane is slated for May 2025, utilizing the United Express Embraer.
In an effort to enhance the passenger experience and stay ahead of the competition, United Airlines plans to rapidly expand the deployment of Starlink across its fleet. The airline intends to equip 40 regional jets with Starlink each month, with all 300 Embraer 175s expected to be equipped with the technology by the end of the year. Collaboration with Elon Musk’s Starlink company is ongoing to secure FAA approval for installing Starlink on more than 16 aircraft models.
United Airlines envisions a future where Starlink Wi-Fi is available on all its flights, with the added benefit of being complimentary for MileagePlus members. Richard Nunn, CEO of United Mileage Plus, emphasized the significance of integrating Starlink into their aircraft, highlighting the transformative impact it will have on the flying experience and the opportunities it will unlock for MileagePlus members.
Last year, United Airlines inked a deal with Starlink to bring the technology to over 1,000 planes in the coming years. This strategic partnership underscores United’s commitment to providing cutting-edge amenities and services to its passengers, setting a new standard for in-flight connectivity.
The approval of Starlink-equipped planes by the FAA marks a significant milestone for United Airlines and signals a new chapter in the evolution of in-flight technology. With plans to rapidly deploy Starlink Wi-Fi across its fleet, United Airlines is poised to revolutionize the flying experience for its passengers and establish itself as a leader in the aviation industry.