United Airlines to test Starlink Wi-Fi on E-175 in February

United Airlines, one of the major U.S. carriers, has announced an accelerated timeline for integrating Starlink Wi-Fi across its entire two-cabin regional aircraft fleet, marking a significant step in transforming the in-flight connectivity experience for its passengers.

In a statement released on January 5, 2025, United revealed that it will begin testing Starlink Wi-Fi services on its Embraer E-175 regional jets in February, with the first commercial flights anticipated to launch in the spring. By the end of 2025, all regional aircraft of this type, which accommodate up to 88 passengers, will be outfitted with Starlink, providing faster and more reliable internet access.

Additionally, the airline is preparing to introduce Starlink on its mainline aircraft, with the first Starlink-enabled jet expected to take flight before the end of this year.

For MileagePlus members, access to the enhanced in-flight entertainment system, which will include streaming services, shopping, gaming, and more, will be free. The Starlink Wi-Fi service will provide internet speeds ranging from 40 to 220 megabits for downloads and 8 to 25 megabits for uploads, ensuring a smooth experience without buffering or lag and eliminating the need for pre-downloaded content during the flight.

“We have a lot planned for our MileagePlus members this year, and adding Starlink to as many planes as possible – as quickly as possible – is at the center of it all,” said Richard Nunn, CEO of United MileagePlus.

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The Starlink rollout is part of United Airlines’ ambitious plan to outfit nearly 1,000 planes and become the first major U.S. carrier to adopt SpaceX’s satellite service. The airline’s move follows its groundbreaking agreement with SpaceX, signed in September 2024.The post United Airlines to test Starlink Wi-Fi on E-175 in February appeared first on AeroTime.

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