Topline
United Airlines will be equipping its planes with free in-flight Wi-Fi using SpaceX’s Starlink internet service next year, the airline announced Thursday, becoming the latest airline to offer complimentary internet service.
WASHINGTON – AUGUST 16: A United Airlines aircraft passes by a Continental Airlines aircraft as it … [+]
Key Facts
United will start testing SpaceX’s Starlink service in early 2025 before expanding to more flights later in the year, the airline said.
The service will be free for all passengers aboard the airline’s more than 1,000 planes and allow for multiple devices to be connected at once, according to United.
The Federal Aviation Administration will have to approve SpaceX’s Starlink equipment before it can be equipped on United’s planes, according to the Wall Street Journal.
Get Forbes Breaking News Text Alerts: We’re launching text message alerts so you’ll always know the biggest stories shaping the day’s headlines. Text “Alerts” to (201) 335-0739 or sign up here.
Key Background
SpaceX has reached deals with other airlines to provide internet service on flights in the U.S., including Hawaiian Airlines and the public charter carrier JSX, in addition to agreements with Qatar Airways, Air Baltic Corp., Air New Zealand and ZIPAIR Tokyo. More airlines have started offering complimentary Wi-Fi in recent years, as customers request higher-speed internet connections while traveling. JetBlue Airways, American Airlines and Southwest Airlines have offered or announced plans to offer free internet in recent years, and Delta Airlines—which has reportedly tested Starlink on some flights—rolled out a free internet service on some planes last year.
Surprising Fact
SpaceX CEO Elon Musk responded to criticism of United chief executive Scott Kirby by X users earlier this year, appearing to support posts that were skeptical of Scott’s plan to increase diversity among United pilots. Jojo, United’s chief customer officer, told the Journal that United was aware of Musk’s social media posts, though they continued with a partnership because of Starlink’s value to the airline’s customers.