United will begin testing Starlink on flights in February

United Airlines has announced plans to begin testing Starlink on flights in February, and eventually add SpaceX’s internet service to all of its fleet. The company made the first announcement partnership with SpaceX “Setting a new standard for air travel connectivity” in September 2024.

After testing, United expects the first commercial flight with Starlink to be on the United Embraer E-175 by the end of the spring. All other “double-decker planes” will have Starlink in 2025, and United says it will have “the first Starlink-powered plane in the air” by the end of the year.

Starlink will be available free of charge to all members of United’s MileagePlus program. Besides improving Wi-Fi coverage, United sees Starlink as an opportunity to “open up a new contract” for its members. Don’t be surprised if United strikes new deals with promotional services to offer free in-flight information.

United are joining both Delta and Hawaiian Airlines in partnership with Starlink for Wi-Fi internet. SpaceX first announced its plans provide internet speed of 350 Mbps to the airport in 2022, and both Delta and Hawaiian Airlines have tested Starlink or committed to offering it on their planes.

Starlink has grown in big ways over the past year. SpaceX should test Starlink’s Direct-to-cell satellite service and T-Mobile when Hurricane Milton hit the US, made plans extensive beta testing of service in February and launched a global satellite transmission service in New Zealand.