VIVAERO

United Authorized to Install Starlink Antennas on Its Boeing 737s

United Airlines announced it has become the first U.S. airline to certify aircraft with SpaceX's Starlink service across its mainline and regional fleets. The first commercial flight with the technology on its mainline fleet is scheduled for October 15th, departing from Newark, New York, aboard a Boeing 737-800.

Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification for the installation of Starlink on United's Boeing 737-800 aircraft was completed less than five months after the first regional flight equipped with the technology, on an Embraer E175-E1. Less than a year after signing the industry's largest agreement with SpaceX, United now offers fast, reliable Wi-Fi free of charge to MileagePlus members across much of its fleet. According to the airline, more than half of its regional fleet is now equipped with Starlink. The first flights with customers showed that 90% of them enjoyed the experience, highlighting the high speed, ease of use, and consistent connection.

Grant Milstead, United's vice president of Digital Technology, said: "Customers are loving the Starlink experience onboard our regional aircraft, and the first flight in our mainline fleet equipped with the technology will deliver an even superior experience to even more people. We're installing Starlink to offer innovative in-flight entertainment, including streaming services, shopping, gaming, and more."

The Starlink system, in addition to providing the fastest Wi-Fi available in flights, also offers operational benefits such as simpler installation, lighter weight, and resistance to adverse weather conditions. The service will be available free to all MileagePlus customers, who can sign up at no additional cost.

United plans to expand Starlink deployment to all aircraft models in its regional and mainline fleet, totaling more than 16 aircraft types, ensuring an advanced and reliable connectivity experience across its entire network.