According to CNN and TechCrunch, SpaceX’s Starlink satellite internet service, led by Elon Musk, is making significant strides in expanding its reach. As of January 5th, Starlink is set to be integrated into United Airlines, one of the major U.S. carriers. This marks a major step in SpaceX’s expansion of its satellite internet technology into the commercial aviation industry.
United Airlines to Begin In-Flight Testing
United Airlines initially announced plans to introduce Starlink’s internet service in September of last year. However, the airline revealed that it would begin in-flight testing next month, ahead of its original schedule. The full-scale rollout of the service will be launched on some regional aircraft starting this spring. The airline has ambitious plans to expand the Starlink service to its major routes by the end of 2025. Additionally, members of United’s ‘Mileage Plus’ program will be able to access Starlink’s satellite internet for free during their flights.
Growing Influence of Musk’s Starlink
CNN highlighted that the inclusion of Starlink by United Airlines, one of the largest carriers in the U.S., underscores Elon Musk’s growing influence across various industries in the American economy. The satellite internet service is not limited to United Airlines, as Hawaiian Airlines has also adopted Starlink for some of its flights. Furthermore, the charter company JSX is offering Starlink Wi-Fi on 46 of its aircraft, demonstrating the expanding reach of SpaceX’s internet service within the aviation sector.