United Airlines WiFi expands to mainline jets as Starlink secures FAA approval, bringing faster, free in-flight internet to travellers on larger aircraft.
United Airlines Wifi
United’s Starlink journey has reached another milestone after the airline announced its partnership with SpaceX to introduce satellite-powered WiFi to its fleet.
Earlier this year, it secured FAA approval for regional aircraft and started rolling out the service in March 2025. Now, the FAA has signed off on the first mainline aircraft to be fitted with Starlink, opening the door for United’s larger planes to join the programme.
Regional jets were always going to be the test bed, but the real prize was getting Starlink onto mainline aircraft. These carry more passengers, fly longer routes and make up the backbone of United’s schedule.
United has now confirmed that the first mainline aircraft has cleared certification. There is no fleet rollout list yet; however, the first aircraft will be a Boeing 737-800, which is scheduled to fly from Newark/New York on October 15.
Starlink WiFi has already been proving itself on regional flights with faster speeds, lower latency and enough bandwidth to stream or make video calls (please don’t though).
Legacy in-flight internet often struggled with even basic browsing, making the contrast even clearer. United says the service is and will remain free across all devices, whether you are on a phone, tablet or laptop.
Most airlines still charge, sometimes at steep rates, for patchy connections. United, along with a growing list of rival airlines, is betting that a consistently fast and free service will set it apart from the competition.
In its statement, United said: “This is the latest step in our mission to offer reliable, free, and fast in-flight internet across our entire fleet. With the FAA’s approval, we’re excited to begin installing Starlink on our mainline aircraft, expanding the benefits already being enjoyed by customers on regional jets.“
For passengers, it simply means not having to wonder whether your flight is one of the lucky few with decent WiFi. Over time, the goal is for every United aircraft to offer the same experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
The FAA has cleared the first United mainline aircraft to use Starlink, moving United Airlines WiFi beyond the earlier approval that covered regional jets in March 2025.
Yes. United states that United Airlines WiFi powered by Starlink is free for passengers on equipped aircraft.
United has confirmed approval for the first mainline aircraft. A full fleet list has not been published, so United Airlines WiFi availability will expand as installations proceed.
United highlights faster speeds and low latency suitable for streaming and video calls. No specific figures are listed on the provided pages for United Airlines WiFi on mainline aircraft.
United says Starlink is on select flights today and will expand over time. With FAA approval on mainline aircraft, United Airlines WiFi coverage will grow as more planes are fitted.
Yes. United notes that Starlink enables streaming and video calls, which marks a step up for United Airlines WiFi compared with legacy inflight connectivity.
Regional jets began first after FAA approval in March 2025. Today’s approval lets United bring United Airlines WiFi with Starlink to mainline aircraft that carry more passengers and fly longer routes.
