United Announces Accelerated Timeline for Starlink's Industry-Leading Connectivity in the Sky

United Airlines has announced an accelerated timeline for implementing Starlink satellite internet across its fleet. The first commercial flight with Starlink service is expected this spring on an Embraer E-175 aircraft, with testing beginning next month. The airline plans to equip its entire two-cabin regional fleet by end of 2025 and launch its first mainline Starlink-enabled aircraft before year-end.

The service will be free for all MileagePlus members, offering high-speed, low-latency internet access gate-to-gate, enabling streaming services, shopping, and gaming. This follows United's agreement with SpaceX last September to bring Starlink to its entire fleet. The MileagePlus program, recently rated the world's best airline loyalty program, features free membership, no mile expiration, no blackout dates, and the ability to pool miles with family and friends.