United announced Friday that the FAA has certified its first Starlink-equipped mainline aircraft, clearing the way for the carrier to expand use of the satellite-connected technology throughout its passenger fleet.
In a statement, airline leaders said the FAA approved a supplemental type certificate for Starlink’s use on the Boeing 737-800. The first United 737-800 to use Starlink is scheduled to fly from Newark, New Jersey, on Oct. 15.
Starlink, which is owned by aerospace company SpaceX, provides wireless internet service from a constellation of more than 7,600 miniature satellites in low Earth orbit. It offers speeds of up to 250 megabits per second.
United has already installed Starlink on some Embraer E175s flown under its United Express brand.
“Customers are loving the Starlink experience onboard our regional aircraft, and our first Starlink-equipped mainline aircraft will bring a superior inflight experience to even more people,” said Grant Milstead, United’s vice president of digital technology, in a news release. “We’re working to install Starlink and offer game-changing inflight entertainment experiences like streaming services, shopping, gaming, and more.”
The carrier plans to add the technology to over 16 mainline and regional aircraft models. It must secure additional supplemental type certificates from regulators to do so.
United makes Starlink-enabled wireless internet free for all MileagePlus customers.
