United Expands Starlink Wi-Fi to More Than 635 Aircraft

United Airlines has activated Starlink Wi-Fi on more than 635 aircraft, bringing the service to nearly half of its daily departures and an average of more than 250,000 passengers a day.

The equipped planes serve more than 2,500 flights each day. United’s cumulative figures include more than 37.7 million passengers carried on Starlink-equipped aircraft across more than 538,000 flights, with 14 million devices powered.

As of an Oct. 15 snapshot, 639 aircraft were equipped: 351 regional planes, 282 narrowbodies and six widebodies.

Installations are proceeding at about 20 aircraft a week, with completion planned by the end of 2027. Passengers can check whether a flight is scheduled to have Starlink up to three days before departure. Aircraft assignments may change close to takeoff.

“Starlink gives customers even more reasons to choose United and keep coming back,” said Andrew Nocella, United’s executive vice president and chief commercial officer.

United’s agreement with SpaceX, announced Sept. 13, 2024, covers its mainline and regional aircraft and specified that Starlink service would be free. American Airlines plans to start its own Starlink installations in early 2027 across more than 1,000 mainline aircraft, extending its previously announced fleet plan.

United also extended its “Switch to Better Wi-Fi” offer through Oct. 22. Eligible Delta SkyMiles and American AAdvantage members can qualify for United Premier status through January 2028 by meeting spending requirements and taking a United or United Express flight within 90 days.