United Airlines has announced its accelerated timeline to integrate United Airlines Starlink, a high-speed inflight connectivity service, across its fleet. Testing is set to commence next month, with the first commercial flight featuring Starlink scheduled for spring 2024. The initial rollout will begin with United’s Embraer E-175 aircraft.
The airline plans to equip its entire two-cabin regional fleet with Starlink by the close of 2024, with a mainline aircraft equipped with the system also expected to take off before the end of the year. Eventually, United Airlines Starlink connectivity will be available on every United aircraft, enhancing passenger access to fast and reliable internet services.
MileagePlus members will benefit from free access to United Airlines Starlink, unlocking streaming, gaming, shopping, and other entertainment features during flights. Enrollment in the MileagePlus program is free, and travelers can sign up on united.com/starlink. “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,” said Richard Nunn, CEO of United MileagePlus.
In September 2024, United signed a groundbreaking agreement with SpaceX to bring Starlink connectivity to its entire fleet. The service will deliver gate-to-gate coverage, offering high-speed, low-latency internet on personal devices and seatback screens, enabling a seamless digital experience for passengers with United Airlines Starlink connectivity.
MileagePlus Enhances Passenger Rewards and Connectivity
United’s award-winning MileagePlus loyalty program complements the upcoming Starlink service with benefits tailored to passenger needs. The program is free to join and allows members to earn miles without expiration. Members can redeem miles for flights, in-flight WiFi, snacks, and other services, with no blackout dates for booking award seats. Additionally, MileagePlus customers can pool their miles with family and friends for greater flexibility.
On an average day, approximately 31,000 seats on United flights are filled by MileagePlus members using award miles, which is the equivalent of 100 Boeing 777 aircraft. During the summer of 2024, more than three million MileagePlus members traveled using their miles.
The Future of Inflight Connectivity
United Airlines’ partnership with SpaceX underscores its commitment to enhancing the passenger experience through technological advancements. As United Airlines Starlink connectivity becomes standard across the fleet, passengers can look forward to a new era of inflight entertainment and productivity. MileagePlus members will enjoy added benefits that make their travel more rewarding, while United continues to innovate for customer satisfaction.
