Kirby says fast connectivity, not free access, is the real value proposition for in-flight Wi-Fi, and only Starlink delivers it.

Free was never the value proposition. Fast is the value proposition, and there’s only one option for fast. It’s Starlink.

Kirby says Delta's decision to pass on Starlink in favor of Amazon's Leo for in-flight Wi-Fi was a mistake.

It was a mistake

Kirby says customers are already switching flights to get Starlink service, which he expects to help build loyalty to United.

I’m talking to people like, ‘I’m switching to flying a regional flight because it’s got Starlink.’

Kirby calls Starlink the most important factor for customers choosing an airline and the biggest competitive advantage, though a temporary one as everyone will eventually get high-speed LEO connectivity.

the most important thing for customers to choose an airline now

Kirby says LEO Wi-Fi will eventually be industry standard, but United expects to be the only global U.S. airline with Starlink at scale in 2027-2028, drawing new customers.

We know that eventually high-speed, low earth orbit Wi-Fi will be industry standard for everyone,” Kirby said. But for 2027 and really 2028, we are well on our way to being the only global U.S. airline with Starlink at scale. So a lot of new customers are going to try us.