United says nearly half its flights now carry Starlink equipment

United Airlines has installed Starlink internet equipment on more than 600 aircraft, and the carrier says close to half of its daily departures now use the system, according to figures the airline has highlighted. Early installations on regional jets help that departure-based measure: those aircraft typically fly more sectors per day than larger ones, though over shorter distances and with fewer passengers.

Installations are expected to speed up in the months ahead. Lower aircraft demand in the winter season, particularly in October and early November, should free up more airframes for the work. One source suggested the airline could reach a pace of two aircraft a day during that stretch.

United has not given a completion date for the programme.