In-flight Wi-Fi is free on United Airlines, thanks to an agreement with SpaceX

United Airlines announced today that it has signed an agreement with SpaceX to provide Starlink Wi-Fi services on all major and regional airlines. The service will bring fast, reliable Internet service to passengers, in the air and on the ground—for free.

United plans to equip more than 1,000 planes with Starlink, beginning with testing in early 2025 and full passenger access planned for later that year.

Currently, United charges loyalty program members $8 for Internet access and other passengers $10 on most domestic and short-haul international flights, using a combination of providers such as ViaSat and Panasonic. With the new service, the airline aims to provide consistent, global coverage, including over seas and remote regions where traditional signals fail.

“Everything you can do on the ground, you’ll soon be able to do on a United plane at 35,000 feet,” United CEO Scott Kirby said in a statement, emphasizing that the new technology will enhance the airline’s entertainment experience, with more personalized content available in every seat.

What are the main benefits for customers?

In-flight connectivity will include gate-to-gate Internet access, allowing passengers to enjoy live TV, streaming services, social media, shopping, gaming, and more on seat screens and personal devices simultaneously.

Key features of the new service include:

• Stream live TV, shows and movies without buffering
• Real-time productivity of work tasks, including document sharing
• Gaming capabilities, including live streaming of games
• E-commerce options for shopping and booking
• Ability to connect multiple devices under one user
• Real-time support through the United app with Agent on Demand

How does this compare to other airlines’ free Wi-Fi offerings?

United is not the first carrier to offer free Wi-Fi as part of an effort to attract customers. JetBlue is a pioneer in this area and has offered free Wi-Fi for several years. Delta introduced wireless Internet to members of its SkyMiles loyalty program in early 2023, and Hawaiian Airlines, which also partners with Starlink, followed suit with free Wi-Fi on its planes. Additionally, JSX, a private airline, previously entered into an agreement with SpaceX to bring Starlink connectivity to its passengers.

SpaceX’s Starlink network, with about 6,000 satellites in orbit, connects more than 3 million customers in 100 countries, expanding its service to aviation as part of its broader business strategy.

Before Starlink can be installed on United planes, its equipment will need to be approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).