Does United Airlines Have Wi-Fi?

United Airlines offers Wi-Fi on most domestic and international flights across nearly all Boeing and Airbus aircraft. Passengers connect via the “United_Wi-Fi” network and can purchase access starting at $8 per flight for MileagePlus members or $10 for others, with monthly plans and miles redemption also available. T-Mobile customers and MileagePlus members on Starlink-equipped planes may get free Wi-Fi.

The airline uses multiple providers like Panasonic, Viasat, Thales, and Gogo, and is rolling out Starlink satellite Wi-Fi fleetwide by late 2025. Streaming and VPN use are supported, but voice and video calls are restricted. Travelers should check Wi-Fi availability through the United app or booking details as options and performance vary by flight.

WiFi Availability on United Airlines Flights

United Airlines has equipped nearly all Boeing 737, 757, 767, 777, and 787 aircraft with Wi-Fi. Most Airbus A319 and A320 jets also offer connectivity. However, some regional jets, such as older Bombardier CRJ models, may not have Wi-Fi.

The airline updates Wi-Fi availability regularly, and passengers should verify coverage for their specific flight via the United app or during booking.

How to Connect to United Airlines WiFi?

• Enable airplane mode on your device.
• Turn on Wi-Fi and select the network named “United_Wi-Fi.”
• Open a browser and navigate to unitedwifi.com.
• Follow on-screen instructions to purchase access or log in if eligible for free use.

Pricing and Subscription Options

Per Flight Access:

• MileagePlus members pay approximately $8 per flight (domestic).
• Non-members pay about $10 per flight.
• International pricing varies, generally between $15 and $30.

Day Pass:

• Around $19 for unlimited use on same-day flights.
• Limited availability depending on aircraft and provider.

Monthly Subscription:

• $49 for North and Central America coverage.
• $69 for global coverage.

Annual Subscriptions:

• Discontinued as of May 2025.

MileagePlus Miles:

• Members can redeem miles to access WiFi, starting near 1,600 miles for domestic flights.

Free WiFi Access Opportunities

• T-Mobile Magenta MAX customers receive unlimited WiFi on eligible United flights.
• T-Mobile Magenta customers receive four full-flight passes annually and unlimited messaging.
• MileagePlus members flying on Starlink-equipped aircraft currently enjoy complimentary WiFi access.
• United credit cardholders may receive partial statement credits on WiFi purchases.

WiFi Providers and Technology

United Airlines uses several providers to deliver in-flight WiFi:

• Panasonic: Primarily on widebody aircraft for international and transcontinental flights.
• Viasat: High-speed internet on many domestic flights.
• Thales: Present on Airbus narrowbody aircraft.
• Gogo: Mostly on regional jets, offering limited speeds.
• Starlink (SpaceX): New satellite system rolling out fleetwide, expected to cover most aircraft by late 2025.

Starlink Rollout and Future of United Airlines WiFi

United Airlines partners with SpaceX to install Starlink internet on regional and domestic aircraft. Starlink offers gate-to-gate connectivity with significantly faster speeds and lower latency than traditional systems. Testing shows download speeds above 100 Mbps and upload speeds near 20–30 Mbps.
The airline targets full fleet implementation by the end of 2025. MileagePlus members currently receive free access on Starlink-equipped flights.

United Airlines Inflight WiFi: Usage Restrictions

Passengers may browse, stream, send messages, and use VPNs. United Airlines prohibits or limits voice and video calling to maintain service quality and comfort for all passengers. The airline reserves the right to restrict bandwidth or disconnect users engaging in disruptive behavior.

Conclusion

United Airlines offers WiFi across nearly its entire mainline fleet, with flexible access options ranging from single-flight passes to monthly subscriptions. The addition of SpaceX’s Starlink marks a significant upgrade in speed and reliability. Passengers should verify coverage on their flight and select an access method that matches their travel and data usage needs.

FAQs

Q1. Is Wi-Fi available on all United Airlines flights?

No. While Wi-Fi is available on the majority of United Airlines mainline aircraft (e.g., Boeing 737, 757, 777, 787), some smaller regional jets—especially older CRJ models—may not offer connectivity. Coverage can also depend on aircraft rotation and maintenance.

Q2. How do I know if my United flight has Wi-Fi?

Check your flight details during booking or in the United app. United provides a list of onboard amenities, including Wi-Fi availability, under “Flight Status” or in the “My Trips” section.

Q3. Can I stream Netflix or YouTube on United Wi-Fi?

Yes, but only on select aircraft with Viasat or Starlink networks. Older systems like Panasonic and Gogo may not support high-speed streaming. Check with the flight crew or test connection speed once onboard.

Q4. Does United Airlines offer free Wi-Fi to any passengers?

Yes. Passengers with T-Mobile Magenta MAX plans receive unlimited in-flight Wi-Fi on supported aircraft. In addition, MileagePlus members flying on Starlink-equipped planes can connect free of charge.

Q5. Can I use my MileagePlus miles to pay for Wi-Fi?

Yes. You can redeem MileagePlus miles for Wi-Fi on most flights. The redemption rate varies but typically starts around 1,600 miles for a domestic session. The option will appear at unitedwifi.com during connection.

Q6. Can I buy Wi-Fi access in advance of my flight?

No. Wi-Fi access for individual flights must be purchased after boarding and connecting to the onboard Wi-Fi network. However, you can subscribe to a monthly plan in advance through your MileagePlus account.

Q7. Is there a data cap or time limit on United Wi-Fi?

United does not impose strict data caps, but excessive usage may be throttled to preserve bandwidth for other users. Some plans, like hourly access via Gogo, do have time limits. Monthly or daily passes are unlimited within their time window.

Q8. Are video calls allowed on United Wi-Fi?

No. United Airlines blocks or discourages the use of VoIP and video calling apps (e.g., FaceTime, WhatsApp, Zoom) to maintain onboard comfort and conserve bandwidth. Messaging, streaming, and browsing are allowed.

Q9. Can I connect multiple devices using the same plan?

Typically, only one device at a time is supported per purchased connection. If you want to switch devices, you may need to log out on the first device before connecting on another.

Q10. What happens if the Wi-Fi doesn’t work on my flight?

If you purchase Wi-Fi and cannot connect due to a system failure or poor service, you may request a refund by visiting United Airlines Wi-Fi support page or contacting customer service with your flight and receipt information.