United Airlines to provide free Starlink Wi-Fi on planes
United Airlines and SpaceX have signed a deal to offer free in-flight connectivity using the Starlink satellite network starting in late 2025.
The Wi-Fi service will be installed on more than 1,000 aircraft, including its regional network.
The installation process for the system, however, will take several years, United admits, with the first tests scheduled for early 2025.
“Everything you can do on the ground, you’ll soon be able to do onboard a United plane at 35,000 feet, just about anywhere in the world,” said United CEO Scott Kirby.
“We’re excited to team up with United Airlines to transform the inflight experience,” said Gwynne Shotwell, President and Chief Operating Officer at SpaceX.
With a massive network of small satellites in global orbit, Starlink provides stable, low-latency service even over oceans and polar regions.
United will be the first major carrier to offer the service on aircraft, which will allow passengers to be productive at work, watch live streaming, make purchases and play games, among other things.
Wi-Fi will also be configured in onboard entertainment systems, in addition to making it easier for the airline’s own employees, who use mobile devices to serve passengers.
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