United Airlines announced last Friday that it has installed Starlink on its first aircraft. The airline plans to equip more than 40 of its regional aircraft with the technology each month starting in May through the end of 2025 (or more than 300 aircraft); the average installation time will be about 8 hours –excluding removal of existing systems, testing and any modifications to the aircraft– which, a statement said, "makes it about 10 times faster than installing competing systems".

Already at the beginning of January, the company had announced its intention to equip its entire regional fleet with a double cabin (2 classes) by the end of the year (see AVIONEWS). In short, the airline intends to extend the installation of Starlink to its entire fleet. In addition to easier installation, maintenance and overall operation, the operational advantages that Starlink can offer, the note adds, include:

"Rapid installation: Each aircraft will be taken out of service for just 4 days to remove legacy systems, install Starlink, perform testing, and restore internals, versus an average time of more than 10 days with other systems.

Compact Equipment: The Starlink installation kit weighs 85 pounds, significantly less than other kits that can exceed 300 pounds, and features an electronic targeting system with no moving parts, making it easy to transport, install, and maintain.

Energy efficiency: The impact on the weight of the aircraft allows for a reduction in fuel consumption.

Weatherproof: Weatherproof inter-satellite laser link technology ensures reliable communication between satellites and Earth.

Starlink access will be complimentary for all MileagePlus customers, the company said, including new onboard entertainment options, such as streaming services, shopping and gaming.