United Airlines (United) has announced the installation of Starlink on its first regional aircraft, highlighting the technical benefits of the equipment, including its compact size, reduced weight and ease of installation and maintenance. The airline has also shared details of the installation process, demonstrating how the system enhances operational efficiency.
From May until the end of 2025, United plans to equip more than 40 regional aircraft each month with Starlink. The installation process takes approximately eight hours, excluding the removal of existing equipment, testing or any required modifications to the aircraft. This is around ten times faster than the installation of non-Starlink systems, significantly reducing aircraft downtime.
Earlier this year, United announced its intention to equip its entire two-cabin regional fleet with Starlink by the end of the year. In the long term, the airline aims to extend Starlink connectivity across its entire fleet.
Grant Milstead, United's Vice President of Digital Technology, emphasised the airline's rapid deployment of this service, crediting its advanced equipment, technology, and expert team. He praised Starlink as a valuable partner, noting that their shared commitment to innovation and collaboration would allow United to achieve its target of installing the system on more than 300 regional aircraft by the end of the year.
Beyond providing the fastest Wi-Fi in the sky at no cost to passengers, Starlink is set to enhance the onboard experience with improved entertainment options. Additionally, its streamlined installation and maintenance processes contribute to more efficient overall operations.
