United says it will be bringing Starlink’s Wi-Fi service on board its mainline and regional aircraft fleet for free.
According to United, the new, gate-to-gate connectivity provides access to live TV and streaming services, social media, shopping, gaming and more, on seatback screens and personal devices simultaneously.
The airline expects to have Starlink on all United aircraft over the next several years, with testing starting in early 2025 and with the first passenger flights expected later that year.
United CEO Scott Kirby commented: “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 personalised. United’s culture of innovation is, once again, delivering big for our customers.”
Gwynne Shotwell, President and Chief Operating Officer at SpaceX said: “We’re excited to team up with United Airlines to transform the inflight experience. With Starlink onboard your United flight, you’ll have access to the world’s most advanced high-speed internet from gate to gate, and all the miles in between.”
