United Airlines receives FAA approval for Starlink on Boeing 737-800

United Airlines has received approval from the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to operate Boeing 737-800 aircraft equipped with the Starlink satellite internet system. The certification marks the first mainline aircraft in the carrier’s fleet to be cleared for the service, following the completion of its initial installation.

The FAA’s decision extends the Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) for Starlink, previously granted for other aircraft types, to include United’s Boeing 737-800s. As a result, the company plans to launch its first commercial flight with Starlink connectivity on October 15, departing from Newark/New York.

United has already implemented Starlink equipment across more than half of its regional fleet, with installation progressing at a rate of approximately 50 regional jets per month. The first regional flight offering Starlink service operated in May 2025, using an Embraer E175.

The Starlink system, provided by SpaceX, delivers broadband internet via a satellite constellation and is designed to support in-flight streaming, online shopping, and gaming. According to United, initial feedback from regional operations shows that 90% of passengers valued the ability to stream content onboard.

Technical advantages of the Starlink system include a lighter profile compared to traditional satellite connectivity hardware, lower fuel consumption, and increased reliability. The onboard Wi-Fi can reach speeds of up to 250 Mbps, according to manufacturer specifications.

United Airlines’ agreement with SpaceX will allow MileagePlus members to access Starlink Wi-Fi free of charge. Enrollment in the loyalty program is available online at no cost, potentially broadening passenger access to in-flight connectivity.

With the integration of Starlink across its fleet, United seeks to enhance passenger experience and remain competitive in the North American market, where it operates an extensive global route network.

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