TLDR
- SpaceX (SPCX) shares fall 3.02% despite United’s growing Starlink Wi-Fi rollout.
- United equips over 635 aircraft with Starlink, covering nearly half its flights.
- Over 250,000 United passengers fly daily on aircraft offering Starlink Wi-Fi.
- American Airlines plans Starlink installations on more than 1,030 aircraft.
- United extends its Wi-Fi status match offer after applications surge by 275%.
SpaceX (SPCX) stock fell 3.02% to $147.56 on Thursday morning, losing $4.60 despite United Airlines expanding its Starlink Wi-Fi rollout. Shares recovered from sharp intraday lows but remained in negative territory during the morning session. Meanwhile, United reported significant progress in installing SpaceX’s satellite internet service across its commercial aircraft fleet.
Space Exploration Technologies Corp., SPCX
United Airlines Expands Starlink Wi-Fi Across 635 Aircraft
United Airlines announced Thursday that more than 635 aircraft now offer Starlink Wi-Fi across its domestic and international network. The installations cover nearly half of the carrier’s daily departures, marking another milestone in its satellite connectivity program. Furthermore, United continues installing the technology on approximately 20 aircraft weekly as it expands coverage.
The airline expects to complete its planned fleetwide rollout by the end of 2027. Currently, more than 250,000 passengers access Starlink-equipped aircraft daily across approximately 2,500 flights. Since launching the service, United has carried over 37.7 million passengers across 538,000 flights featuring Starlink connectivity.
Additionally, United introduced a digital tracking platform that allows customers to check Starlink availability before departure. Passengers can enter their flight numbers and travel dates within three days of their scheduled journeys. The platform also provides installation statistics across major hubs, including Chicago, Newark, Houston, Denver, Los Angeles, and San Francisco.
SpaceX Starlink Expands Commercial Aviation Partnerships
SpaceX continues strengthening Starlink’s commercial aviation presence as additional airlines adopt its satellite internet technology. American Airlines recently announced plans to install Starlink across more than 1,030 mainline aircraft beginning in early 2027. The expansion will cover narrowbody and widebody aircraft, extending Starlink’s reach across another major American carrier.
Alaska Air Group has introduced Starlink connectivity across approximately 38% of its combined airline fleet. Qatar Airways also provides the service aboard 150 widebody aircraft, while Air France targets broader coverage. Emirates has announced plans to introduce Starlink, further expanding the service’s international aviation presence.
Beyond aviation, SpaceX recently announced an agreement to acquire Grain Management’s nationwide 800 MHz wireless spectrum portfolio. The transaction would support Starlink Mobile’s expansion through satellite connectivity and terrestrial wireless network integration. Consequently, the company continues developing communications services beyond its existing residential and commercial satellite internet operations.
United Introduces Starlink Tracker and Extends Loyalty Campaign
United’s new Starlink tracking platform highlights differences in installation progress across aircraft types and operating hubs. A recent platform preview showed Starlink availability on 48% of departures, with 43% of the fleet equipped. Chicago recorded 55% coverage, while San Francisco reported 35%, reflecting differences in aircraft deployment.
The airline also extended its Switch to Better Wi-Fi status match campaign through October 22. Eligible American Airlines and Delta Air Lines loyalty members can qualify for United Premier status through January 2028. Participants must meet spending requirements between $1,500 and $7,000 and complete a qualifying flight within 90 days.
United reported a 275% increase in status match applications compared with levels before the campaign. New York City, Los Angeles, and San Francisco generated the highest participation volumes during the promotional period. Meanwhile, United continues using Starlink connectivity to support its passenger experience and loyalty program strategy.
