Airlines

United Airlines Brings Free Starlink Wi-Fi to the Skies with SpaceX Partnership

United Airlines is setting a new benchmark for inflight connectivity by entering into the industry’s largest agreement with SpaceX to bring Starlink’s high-speed, reliable Wi-Fi service to its fleet.

This move will cover both mainline and regional aircraft, offering passengers a seamless internet experience, free of charge.

With Starlink’s satellite-powered, low-latency internet service, United passengers will soon enjoy the same high-speed browsing in the sky as they do on the ground. The gate-to-gate connectivity will unlock a range of digital experiences—unmatched by any other major U.S. airline—making it possible to stream live TV, use social media, shop, game, and more, whether on personal devices or seatback screens.

United plans to outfit more than 1,000 aircraft with Starlink, with testing set to begin in early 2025 and the first passenger flights expected later that year. As the largest airline across both the Atlantic and Pacific, United will be the first to bring Starlink’s capabilities at such a significant scale. Passengers can expect uninterrupted Wi-Fi service even over oceans, polar regions, and other remote locations that have traditionally been out of reach for inflight connectivity.

Key benefits of United’s new Starlink service include:

Live streaming: Passengers can stream movies, shows, and TV without buffering or the need for pre-downloaded content.
Workplace productivity: Real-time editing of shared documents and seamless downloads/uploads of work files.
Gaming: Live gaming and streaming support for uninterrupted entertainment.
E-Commerce: Browse and shop online, schedule deliveries, and make reservations—all from 35,000 feet in the air.
Multiple devices: Users can connect several devices simultaneously, under one profile.
In-flight United app support: Download the United app while inflight for real-time updates and live assistance through the “Agent on Demand” feature.

In addition to personal device use, passengers will have access to the Starlink service via nearly 100,000 seatback screens across United’s fleet. The airline’s new signature interiors feature state-of-the-art entertainment systems, including 16-inch HD touch screens in United Polaris® business class, 13-inch screens in First Class, and 10-inch screens in Economy. Other features include Bluetooth connectivity, power outlets at every seat, larger overhead bins, and modern LED lighting.

Airlines

Sanctions & Engine Issues Ground Half of Russia’s A320neo fleet

Russia’s aviation sector, already strained by Western sanctions, faces another setback as nearly half of its Airbus A320neo family aircraft are grounded due to unresolved engine issues.

This development highlights the growing challenges for russia commercial aircraft in maintaining their fleets under the weight of global restrictions and limited access to spare parts.

Out of the 66 Airbus A320neo and A321neo jets in Russia, 34 are now out of service, according to the Kommersant business newspaper. These planes are powered by engines manufactured by Pratt & Whitney, a subsidiary of RTX Corporation.

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The engines are affected by a previously identified defect in the metal used for certain parts, prompting accelerated inspections and maintenance.

Sanctions have compounded the issue, blocking the supply of essential components from major manufacturers like Boeing and Airbus. Without proper maintenance, experts warn that these aircraft may face decommissioning as early as 2026.

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Airlines like S7, which operates a significant portion of these grounded jets, plan to conserve the engines for future use during peak travel seasons. However, reports suggest that over 20 of S7’s Airbus planes have engines that have already reached the end of their operational lifespan. Recently, russia seeks assistance from kazakhstan’s airlines to bolster its domestic flights.

While some A320neo and A321neo planes in Russia are equipped with French-made LEAP engines, which are seen as less problematic, the challenges remain daunting.

The situation underscores the long-term impact of sanctions on Russia’s aviation sector and the increasing difficulties in keeping its modern fleets operational.