United Airlines Secures FAA Approval for First Starlink-Equipped Mainline Aircraft, Launch Flight Set for October 15

Image credits: United

United has reached a major milestone in its partnership with SpaceX by securing FAA certification for its first mainline aircraft equipped with Starlink’s satellite connectivity system. The first commercial flight featuring the new system is scheduled to depart from Newark/New York on October 15 aboard a Boeing 737-800.

This achievement comes less than a year after United signed the industry’s largest agreement with SpaceX to bring free, high-speed Starlink Wi-Fi to MileagePlus members across both mainline and regional fleets. Since May 2025, more than half of United’s regional fleet has already been outfitted with Starlink, with installations continuing at a pace of about 50 aircraft per month.

Customer response has been overwhelmingly positive, with 90% praising the ability to stream content seamlessly thanks to Starlink’s fast, reliable, and user-friendly connection.

“Customers are loving the Starlink experience onboard our regional aircraft, and our first Starlink-equipped mainline aircraft will bring a superior in-flight experience to even more people,” said Grant Milstead, United’s Vice President of Digital Technology. “We’re working to expand this technology across our fleet and unlock new entertainment possibilities such as streaming services, shopping, and gaming.”

United’s adoption of Starlink is set to redefine in-flight connectivity standards, combining faster installation processes with lighter, more efficient equipment that reduces fuel usage and improves reliability.

The airline continues to work closely with the FAA to secure approvals across more than 16 regional and mainline aircraft models, underscoring its commitment to bringing customers the fastest Wi-Fi in the skies.