United Airlines to roll out Elon Musk's Starlink Wi-Fi on commercial flights this spring
United Airlines passengers could have access to Starlink-enabled Wi-Fi as soon as this spring.
The company first announced a deal inked with Elon Musk’s Starlink in September, promising customers that it would offer “fast, reliable Wi-Fi service” on its mainline and regional aircraft fleet for free.
On Sunday, the company said it had accelerated its planned timeline. Testing is set to begin next month, followed by a rollout that will have United's two-cabin regional fleet outfitted with Starlink and the first Starlink-enabled plane flying on major routes before the end of the year. United said it will eventually add Starlink to its entire fleet.
"We have a lot planned for our MileagePlus members this year and adding Starlink to as many planes as we can – as quickly as we can – is at the center of it all," Richard Nunn, CEO of United MileagePlus, said in a Sunday news release.
To access the Starlink Wi-Fi, passengers must be MileagePlus members, United’s loyalty program, which is free to join. Wi-Fi access is set to include in-flight entertainment options such as streaming services, shopping and gaming. Internet connectivity will be available on seatback screens and personal devices.
Starlink, a satellite network operated by SpaceX, has also signed deals with Hawaiian Airlines and regional air carrier JSX.