United Airlines becomes first US carrier to launch satellite-based onboard Wi-Fi service

United Airlines has introduced onboard satellite-based Wi-Fi internet connectivity on selected overseas routes.

This has made it the first US-based international carrier to offer passengers to stay connected with the Wi-Fi on long-haul overseas routes.

The aircraft, a Boeing 747 outfitted with Panasonic Avionics’ Ku-band satellite technology, serves trans-Atlantic and trans-Pacific routes, the Enterprise Innovation reports.

Additionally, United has outfitted Ku-band satellite Wi-Fi on two Airbus 319 aircraft serving domestic routes, offering customers faster inflight internet service than air-to-ground technology (ATG).

United expects to complete installation of satellite-based Wi-Fi on 300 mainline aircraft by the end of this year.

The company will also install satellite-based Wi-Fi on Airbus 319 and 320 aircraft, and on Boeing 737, 747, 757, 767, 777 and 787 aircraft.

Customers will be able to use their wireless devices such as laptops, smart phones and tablets onboard to connect with the service, the report added.