United Airlines has officially kicked off its Starlink-powered flights, becoming the largest U.S. airline to adopt the high-speed satellite internet service. The first Starlink-equipped flight took off on May 15 between Chicago O’Hare and Detroit, marking a major milestone in United’s ongoing push to improve the in-flight experience.
Starlink, developed by SpaceX, is being installed on hundreds of United’s regional jets, with full rollout expected on over 300 aircraft by the end of the year. New long-haul planes like the Boeing 787 Dreamliner will also come equipped with the technology.
Unlike traditional in-flight Wi-Fi, which is often slow and unreliable, Starlink offers streaming-quality speeds and lets passengers connect multiple devices simultaneously. United has already made this upgrade a perk for its loyalty program: MileagePlus members will now access the service for free (previously $8), while non-members still pay $10.
According to United’s leadership, the feedback from the first Starlink flight has been overwhelmingly positive, with customers reporting fast, stable connections – something rarely said about legacy in-flight internet. While timelines for full implementation across United’s mainline fleet remain under wraps, plans are in motion following recent FAA approvals for aircraft like the Embraer 175.
Other global carriers like Qatar Airways and Air France are also adopting Starlink, signaling a broader industry shift toward better onboard connectivity.
What This Means for Business Travel
For corporate travel planners and executive assistants, United’s adoption of Starlink is a notable development. As more business travelers look to stay productive on the go, reliable in-flight internet can heavily influence airline choice, especially on routes longer than two hours.
Here’s why this matters:
- Consistent connectivity enables employees to catch up on emails, attend virtual meetings, or prep for arrivals without disruption.
- Free access for MileagePlus members is an added value for companies already booking with United regularly.
- Broader rollout across United’s regional and long-haul fleet means this upgrade could become a standard across more domestic and international routes.
While premium perks usually cater to high-tier travelers, this one improves the workday for any employee needing to stay connected mid-flight. It’s worth considering when reviewing airline suppliers for your company’s travel program.