United Airlines Gets FAA Green Light for First Starlink-Powered Jets
United Airlines has recently secured approval from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for its first mainline aircraft equipped with SpaceX’s Starlink Wi-Fi.
On September 26, 2025, the airline announced that a Boeing 737-800 had successfully undergone certification, with its inaugural commercial flight scheduled for October 15, 2025, connecting Newark and New York.
The FAA has given the green light for amending the Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) to allow the Starlink system on United’s Boeing 737-800 fleet.
In a groundbreaking move, United revealed a partnership with Elon Musk’s SpaceX on September 13, 2024, aiming to equip its entire fleet with satellite-enabled high-speed Wi-Fi.
This recent certification follows closely on the heels of the first Starlink-enabled United flight using the Embraer 175 regional aircraft, which took place less than five months ago.
Currently, more than half of United’s regional fleet is now supported by Starlink technology, with the airline installing the system on approximately 50 aircraft each month.
“Customers are enjoying the Starlink experience on our regional flights, and our first mainline aircraft featuring Starlink will enhance the inflight experience for many more passengers,” stated Grant Milstead, United’s Vice President of Digital Technology.
He added that the airline aims to install Starlink and provide innovative inflight entertainment options including streaming services, shopping, gaming, and more.
United is working with over 16 regional and mainline aircraft models that are receiving this advanced technology, each requiring FAA STC approval for the Starlink installation.
According to United, the FAA certification process encompasses the approval of design, installation, testing, and system certification to ensure safe and reliable operations.
Have you experienced Starlink on a flight, or are you looking forward to trying it?
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