United’s Starlink-powered Wi-Fi is the end of airplane mode

The Verge - May 11th, 2025

United Airlines has introduced high-speed in-flight Wi-Fi powered by SpaceX's Starlink, marking a significant step towards ending the era of unreliable internet connectivity in the skies. The first test flight, which took place in a United Embraer E-175 at Chicago's O'Hare Airport, showcased impressive download speeds averaging 128 mbps. This move is part of United's accelerated plan to install Starlink modems across its entire fleet, starting with regional jets. Unlike many airlines, United is not charging extra for the Wi-Fi, setting it apart from competitors who charge various fees for in-flight internet access. Passengers enjoyed a seamless browsing experience from gate-to-gate, a feature not commonly offered by other systems that typically require the aircraft to be above 10,000 feet before activation.

The implementation of Starlink Wi-Fi is poised to have broader implications for air travel, potentially transforming planes into mobile workspaces due to the reliable internet access. However, this convenience comes with concerns about the erosion of the traditional 'disconnect' time that flights used to provide. United plans to leverage the technology for hyper-personalized advertising, indicating a future where in-flight internet may also become a new frontier for targeted marketing. While United is not the first airline to adopt Starlink, its status as North America's largest carrier underscores the significance of this development in the broader aviation industry. The carrier's commitment to rolling out the technology on all 1,026 planes signifies a major shift in expectations for in-flight connectivity and passenger experience.

Elon Musk Space X United Airlines Starlink Airline Industry Aviation Technology In Flight Wi Fi Connectivity

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RATING

7.0

Fair Story

Consider it well-founded

The article provides a clear and engaging narrative about United Airlines' introduction of Starlink-powered Wi-Fi, highlighting the potential benefits and challenges of this technological advancement. It accurately presents key facts about the service's performance and rollout plans, although it lacks direct source attribution and transparency in methodology. The piece is timely and relevant, addressing a topic of significant public interest with implications for air travelers and the aviation industry. However, it could benefit from more balanced coverage of alternative viewpoints and a deeper exploration of potential controversies, such as privacy concerns and the impact on work habits. Overall, the article effectively informs readers about an exciting development in in-flight connectivity while leaving room for further exploration of its broader implications.

Accuracy

The article presents a largely accurate depiction of United Airlines' introduction of Starlink-powered Wi-Fi. Key claims, such as the launch date for Starlink Wi-Fi and its performance metrics, align with available information. The article accurately describes the speeds of 128 Mbps for downloads and 23.9 Mbps for uploads, which are consistent with reported figures. However, the narrative lacks specific citations or references to official sources or press releases from United Airlines or SpaceX, which would strengthen its accuracy. Additionally, while the article mentions the involvement of influencers and executives on the test flight, it does not provide verifiable names or direct quotes, limiting the ability to confirm these details independently.

Balance

The article provides a balanced view by discussing both the potential benefits and drawbacks of high-speed in-flight Wi-Fi. It highlights the positive aspects, such as improved connectivity and user experience, while also addressing concerns about increased work expectations and potential privacy issues with personalized ads. However, the article primarily focuses on the technological and consumer aspects without exploring broader industry implications or alternative viewpoints, such as environmental impacts or competitive responses from other airlines.

Clarity

The article is well-written and easy to follow, with a logical flow that guides the reader through the experience of the test flight and the implications of the new Wi-Fi service. The language is clear and accessible, making complex technical details understandable to a general audience. However, the piece could benefit from more structured sections or subheadings to break down different aspects of the story, such as technical performance, consumer impact, and future plans, which would enhance readability and comprehension.

Source quality

The article lacks direct attribution to specific sources, such as official statements from United Airlines or SpaceX, which affects its credibility. While it includes quotes from United's chief customer officer and MileagePlus CEO, these are not directly linked to verifiable interviews or press releases. The absence of diverse sources or expert opinions limits the depth of the reporting. Including insights from aviation experts or regulatory bodies could enhance the article's reliability and provide a more comprehensive view of the situation.

Transparency

The article provides a clear narrative about the test flight and the performance of the Starlink Wi-Fi but lacks transparency regarding its sources and the methodology used to gather information. There is no disclosure of potential conflicts of interest or affiliations that could influence the reporting. Additionally, the article does not explain how the speed tests were conducted or verified, which could help readers understand the basis for the claims made. Greater transparency in sourcing and methodology would improve the article's credibility.