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United Airlines Secures FAA Approval for Starlink Wi-Fi, First Flight Set for May

United Airlines will debut free, high-speed Starlink internet on its Embraer 175 aircraft, with plans to retrofit its regional fleet by the end of 2025.

  • The FAA has approved United Airlines to operate Starlink satellite internet on its Embraer 175 aircraft, marking a major regulatory milestone.
  • United's first Starlink-equipped commercial flight is scheduled for May 2025, following beta testing on select flights to ensure system performance.
  • The airline plans to retrofit 40 regional jets per month and complete installations across its fleet of 300 Embraer 175 aircraft by the end of the year.
  • Starlink Wi-Fi, offering speeds up to 250 Mbps, will be free for MileagePlus members and enable streaming, gaming, and online shopping during flights.
  • United is collaborating with SpaceX and the FAA to secure certification for over 16 additional aircraft models to expand Starlink connectivity across its fleet.
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