Starlink

The carrier is expanding use of the satellite internet technology across its fleet of Boeing 737-800s.

United announced Friday that the FAA has certified its first Starlink-equipped mainline aircraft, a Boeing 737-800, which is slated to enter service next month.

Hawaiian became the first major U.S. airline to launch the service last year, with its Airbus fleet fully outfitted with the technology. 

Since launching its first Starlink-equipped flight in October 2024, Qatar Airways has operated more than 15,000 connected flights.

Virgin Atlantic has become the first United Kingdom airline to announce plans to implement Starlink in-flight connectivity on all of its aircraft.

United Airlines has obtained approval from the Federal Aviation Administration to operate Starlink-equipped aircraft.

By the end of this year, United will debut Starlink on its first mainline aircraft. Ultimately, the airline’s entire fleet will feature the service.

Alaska Airlines may soon become the latest carrier to join the Starlink bandwagon. The Seattle-based carrier is reportedly “looking at” the service.

The Chicago-based airline initially announced an agreement with Elon Musk’s satellite Wi-Fi provider in September 2024.

International Airlines Group (IAG), the parent company of British Airways and Iberia, has been in discussions with Starlink.