In a significant leap forward for both air travel and in-flight connectivity, United Airlines has officially announced that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has certified its first mainline aircraft equipped with SpaceX’s Starlink technology. This milestone is set to revolutionize the passenger experience, as United plans to launch its first commercial Starlink-equipped flight on October 15. This development follows a series of successful initiatives and agreements between United Airlines and SpaceX to offer high-speed internet access to passengers, marking a new era of Wi-Fi connectivity in the skies.

This announcement comes less than five months after United’s first customer flight featuring Starlink-equipped regional jets. Furthermore, it is just under a year since United entered into an industry-leading agreement with SpaceX, the largest of its kind, to bring Starlink’s cutting-edge Wi-Fi technology to both its mainline and regional fleet. As part of this deal, the service will be offered free of charge to United Airlines’ MileagePlus members, enhancing the overall travel experience for loyal customers.

FAA Certification and the Journey to a Starlink-Equipped Fleet

The FAA’s approval of the Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) amendment for the Boeing 737-800 is a pivotal moment in the airline’s mission to upgrade its fleet with Starlink technology. United Airlines has now completed the installation of the equipment on its first mainline aircraft, and the inaugural Starlink-equipped commercial flight will take place on a Boeing 737-800. This flight will depart from Newark, New Jersey, on October 15, marking the airline’s first foray into offering high-speed Wi-Fi onboard its mainline aircraft.

In May 2025, United’s first Starlink-equipped regional flight was successfully launched on an Embraer 175 regional jet. Since then, the airline has made remarkable progress in outfitting its regional fleet, with Starlink now installed on more than half of its regional aircraft. This rapid rollout highlights United’s commitment to providing a premium in-flight experience for passengers on both its regional and mainline fleets. Early customer feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with approximately 90% of customers expressing satisfaction with the ability to stream content during their flights thanks to the high-speed and reliable connection provided by Starlink.

“Customers are loving the Starlink experience onboard our regional aircraft, and our first Starlink-equipped mainline aircraft will bring a superior inflight experience to even more people,” said Grant Milstead, United’s Vice President of Digital Technology. “We’re working to install Starlink and offer game-changing inflight entertainment experiences like streaming services, shopping, gaming and more.” 

The Benefits of Starlink for United Airlines and Its Customers

One of the most compelling reasons for United Airlines’ decision to implement Starlink on its aircraft is the system’s ability to deliver the fastest Wi-Fi available in the skies. With speeds of up to 250 megabits per second (Mbps), Starlink offers a significant improvement over previous satellite-based Wi-Fi systems, which often struggled with slower speeds and inconsistent connections. For passengers, this means the ability to stream movies, play games, shop online, and access other entertainment options without the frustration of slow or spotty connections.

Another key advantage of the Starlink system is its ease of installation and maintenance. Compared to traditional in-flight Wi-Fi systems, Starlink is lighter, which results in less fuel consumption and a more efficient aircraft operation. Additionally, the system is more reliable and weather-resistant, ensuring a consistent service even in challenging conditions. The streamlined installation process also allows United to equip its fleet more rapidly, minimizing downtime for aircraft and enhancing the overall efficiency of the airline’s operations.

United Airlines has made it clear that Starlink will be available to all MileagePlus members free of charge, a significant benefit for frequent travelers. The inclusion of high-speed Wi-Fi as part of the in-flight experience is expected to elevate United’s customer service offerings and improve the overall satisfaction of its passengers. This move is expected to be a game-changer, offering inflight entertainment experiences that rival those available on the ground.

The Road Ahead: Starlink’s Expansion Across United’s Fleet

United Airlines is not stopping at the certification of its first Starlink-equipped Boeing 737-800. The airline is working closely with SpaceX to secure FAA STC approvals for the installation of Starlink across its entire fleet, which includes over 16 different regional and mainline aircraft models. This comprehensive plan is set to provide consistent and high-speed Wi-Fi connectivity across the airline’s entire network, offering passengers an enhanced flying experience no matter the aircraft or destination.

The FAA certification process involves a rigorous series of design, installation, testing, and certification stages to ensure that the Starlink system operates safely and reliably in all conditions. United Airlines has emphasized the significant technical benefits of the Starlink system, such as its reduced size and weight compared to previous systems, as well as its ease of installation and maintenance. These advantages allow United to roll out the technology across its fleet quickly and efficiently while maintaining a high standard of service for its passengers.

A New Standard for In-Flight Connectivity

United’s partnership with SpaceX and the successful implementation of Starlink onboard its aircraft marks a turning point in the airline industry’s approach to in-flight connectivity. By offering the fastest, most reliable Wi-Fi available at no extra cost to its loyal MileagePlus members, United Airlines is setting a new standard for passenger expectations in the air. The combination of high-speed internet, seamless streaming, and reliable connectivity is poised to transform the in-flight experience, ensuring that passengers can remain connected, entertained, and productive throughout their journey.

As United Airlines continues to roll out Starlink across its fleet, the airline is setting a powerful example for the rest of the aviation industry, proving that in-flight Wi-Fi can be fast, reliable, and free of charge. With plans for further expansion and continuous improvements to the Starlink system, United is well-positioned to maintain its leadership in providing top-tier passenger experiences and connectivity.

United’s announcement heralds a future where air travel is more connected than ever before, offering passengers the ability to stream, shop, and engage with their devices in ways that were once thought impossible at 35,000 feet. With the first Starlink-equipped commercial flight set for October 15, the airline is taking a bold step forward in ensuring that its passengers stay connected, no matter where their travels take them.