United Airlines is revolutionizing inflight connectivity with Starlink, the advanced internet service from SpaceX. Testing for this cutting-edge technology will begin next month, with the first commercial flight equipped with Starlink expected this spring on a United Embraer E-175 aircraft.
The airline plans to install Starlink across its entire two-cabin regional fleet by the end of this year. By 2025, the first mainline aircraft with Starlink will take off, with the goal of providing high-speed internet across United’s entire fleet. This move aims to deliver unmatched connectivity to passengers.
MileagePlus members will benefit significantly from this initiative. The airline will offer free access to Starlink for its loyalty program members. This will enable passengers to stream, game, shop, and browse during flights. Travelers can join the MileagePlus program for free by signing up at united.com/starlink.
United Airlines is positioning this development as a step toward making air travel more engaging and connected. With Starlink, passengers can enjoy an internet experience in the air that is as fast and reliable as on the ground.
“We have big plans for our MileagePlus members this year, and Starlink is central to those plans,” said Richard Nunn, CEO of United MileagePlus. “It will not only transform the United flying experience but also open doors to new partnerships and benefits for our members.”
In September, United signed a landmark agreement with SpaceX to integrate Starlink into its fleet. Starting in a few months, United passengers will experience uninterrupted internet from gate to gate. They can stream videos, browse the web, and use online services on both seatback screens and personal devices—services unmatched by any other major U.S. airline.
United’s MileagePlus program continues to set the standard for loyalty programs worldwide.
Highlights of the program include:
- Free Membership: Open to all travelers at no cost.
- No Expiration on Miles: Miles earned never expire.
- No Blackout Dates: Miles can be redeemed for any available seat.
- Flexible Spending Options: Use miles for flights, WiFi, snacks, and more.
- Mile Sharing: Allows members to pool miles with family and friends.
On an average day, about 31,000 passengers fly on United award tickets, filling roughly 100 Boeing 777 aircraft. During the summer of 2024, more than three million MileagePlus members used their miles to book flights, showcasing the program’s value.
United Airlines’ partnership with SpaceX and the enhancements to its loyalty program highlight the company’s commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction. With Starlink, United is setting a new standard for inflight technology, ensuring passengers stay entertained and connected wherever they fly.
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