CHICAGO - United Airlines announced that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has approved the Embraer 175 as the first aircraft in its fleet to be equipped with SpaceX’s Starlink satellite internet. The airline expects the first commercial flight featuring Starlink service to occur in May, just under eight months after the partnership was initially announced.
The FAA issued a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) for the Embraer 175. United plans to install the system on its United Express regional jets at a rate of approximately 40 aircraft per month. The airline aims to equip its entire two-cabin regional fleet—over 300 planes—by the end of the year. In preparation for the May launch, United will conduct beta testing on select flights to assess system performance and reliability.
Related: United begins Starlink integration on regional aircraft, plans full rollout
"We know customers are going to love this experience, and we think it will give them yet another reason to choose United," said Grant Milstead, United’s vice president of digital technology. "We’re working closely with Starlink and the FAA to finish installs on our regional fleet this year and bring the best inflight experience in the sky to more and more people."
United is also collaborating with Starlink to obtain FAA certification for additional aircraft types, encompassing over 16 regional and mainline models. The FAA’s approval process involves design, installation, testing, and the final submission for certification.
In March, United outlined the Starlink installation process, highlighting the system’s smaller size, lighter weight, and ease of maintenance compared to existing equipment. The airline states that the Starlink system provides faster installation, enhanced reliability, and decreased fuel consumption due to its lighter design.
