United Receives FAA Certification on Starlink Aircraft and Schedules First Commercial Flight for May 2025 Photo: United Airlines

The FAA approved United Airlines’ starlink-equipped aircraft type, the Embraer 175. United announced Monday that the first commercial flight is planned for May and will operate on a United Express Embraer 175.

This approval comes less than eight months after United announced its partnership with SpaceX to bring Starlink connectivity to its fleet. 

United plans to install Starlink systems on approximately 40 regional jets planned monthly, with the goal of equipping its two-cabin regional fleet of over 300 aircraft by the end of 2025. The airline is working with Starlink to secure FAA Supplemental Type Certificates (STCs) for more than 16 additional aircraft models across its regional and mainline fleets. The STC process includes design, installation, testing, and FAA approval.

United highlighted operational advantages of the Starlink system, including faster installation, reduced weight for improved fuel efficiency, and increased reliability under various weather conditions. Starlink access will be free for all MileagePlus customers.

“We know customers are going to love this experience, and we think it will give them yet another reason to choose United,” said Grant Milstead, United’s vice president of Digital Technology. “We’re working closely with Starlink and the FAA to finish installs on our regional fleet this year and bring the best in-flight experience in the sky to more and more people.”