United Airlines inks deal with Starlink to bring free gate-to-gate internet to passengers
CHICAGO - United Airlines has signed an agreement with SpaceX outside Brownsville, Texas to provide Starlink Wi-Fi service across its mainline and regional aircraft, which the Chicago-based commercial carrier says is the largest deal of its kind in the aviation industry. The company announced that the high-speed, low-latency service will be available to passengers for free.
The Starlink network, designed by SpaceX, uses advanced satellites to deliver internet access globally, including in remote areas such as over oceans and the polar regions. United plans to equip its fleet of more than 1,000 planes with the Starlink system over the next several years. Testing is set to begin in early 2025, with the first flights offering the service later that year.
Passengers will be able to access the internet from gate to gate, allowing them to use streaming services, social media, and online shopping platforms on both seatback screens and personal devices. Live TV and gaming will also be available without buffering or the need to download content beforehand.
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"Everything you can do on the ground, you'll soon be able to do onboard a United plane at 35,000 feet, just about anywhere in the world," said United CEO Scott Kirby. "This connectivity opens the door for an even better inflight entertainment experience, in every seatback – more content, that's more personalized. United's culture of innovation is, once again, delivering big for our customers."
"We're excited to team up with United Airlines to transform the inflight experience," said SpaceX President Gwynne Shotwell. "With Starlink onboard your United flight, you'll have access to the world's most advanced high-speed internet from gate to gate, and all the miles in between."
In addition to personal devices, Starlink connectivity will be available on United's seatback screens. The airline currently has nearly 100,000 seatback screens in its fleet and plans to expand as it retrofits existing aircraft with new interiors and takes delivery of new planes. The screens, available in multiple languages, will range from 10 to 16 inches depending on the cabin class.
The updated interiors will also feature Bluetooth connectivity, power outlets in every seat, larger overhead bins, and enhanced lighting.
