United Airlines Accelerates Starlink In-Flight Wi-Fi Rollout
Faster Than Expected Deployment
United Airlines is moving faster than initially planned with its Starlink in-flight internet service. Testing begins next month, with the first passenger flight equipped with Starlink taking off this spring on an Embraer E-175 regional jet. The airline aims to outfit its entire regional fleet by year-end, with the first mainline aircraft (Boeing 737s and Airbus 320s) receiving Starlink before 2024 concludes. This rapid rollout builds upon the Xiaomi HyperOS 2 update trend of enhancing user experiences through connectivity.
Installation and Features
United's Chief Customer Officer, Linda Jojo, stated that installing the Starlink terminal takes roughly two days per aircraft. The new service promises to provide an on-the-ground internet experience in the air, with sufficient bandwidth for video streaming, productivity apps, and online gaming. This mirrors advancements in other tech sectors, such as affordable AR glasses, aiming to bridge the gap between virtual and real-world experiences.
Free Access for MileagePlus Members
Starlink Wi-Fi will be complimentary for all United MileagePlus members, allowing multiple device connections under a single account. This customer-centric approach aligns with initiatives like Redmi Note 14's free Spotify Premium offer, focusing on added value and user engagement.
Benefits and Partnerships
Richard Nunn, CEO of MileagePlus, emphasized that Starlink will revolutionize the United flying experience and pave the way for new partnerships and member benefits. The move positions United as a leader in in-flight connectivity, potentially influencing future trends in travel technology.