United Airlines (UA) and Air Canada (AC) have launched reciprocal free inflight Wi-Fi access for their respective loyalty program-me members. According to Upgraded Points, the initiative allows Aeroplan and MileagePlus members to access complimentary connectivity when flying on eligible aircraft operated by either carrier.
The move aligns with both airlines’ broader digital connectivity strategies and reflects increasing competition among global carriers to offer seamless onboard internet as a core passenger expectation, particularly across North American and short-haul international routes.
United Airlines and Air Canada’s Reciprocal Wi-Fi Agreement Details
The reciprocal arrangement enables loyalty members of both airlines to access free Wi-Fi across each other’s networks; nevertheless, access is dependent on aircraft equipment and connectivity infrastructure.
Passengers must attach their loyalty number to their booking and authenticate through onboard portals to activate the service.
United Airlines has already set out its sights to equip its fleet with Star-link connectivity, which according to Ryanair will lead to a greater fuel burn.
On the other hand, Bell delivers a streaming-quality connection across Air Canada’s network.
Air Canada’s complimentary Wi-Fi is available on flights within North America as well as to popular sun destinations, including Mexico and the Caribbean. The service is offered on flights operated by Air Canada, Air Canada Rouge, and the majority of Air Canada Express aircraft.
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The following table gives us a cue into the arrangement of the two carriers:
| Feature / Airline | United Airlines (Starlink Wi-Fi) | Air Canada / Air Canada Rouge (Bell Wi-Fi) |
|---|---|---|
| Eligible Members | Aeroplan loyalty members | United MileagePlus members |
| Booking Requirement | Add Aeroplan number to United booking | Enter MileagePlus number when booking Air Canada flight |
| Onboard Login | Date of birth + United booking reference, or scan QR code | Enter MileagePlus number + seat number when accessing Wi-Fi |
| Aircraft Coverage | Wi-Fi-equipped United aircraft (Starlink) | Wi-Fi-equipped Air Canada and Air Canada Rouge North American & sun routes; most Air Canada Express aircraft |
| Long-Haul / International | Currently limited | Planned rollout on long-haul international routes in 2026 |
| Account Flexibility | Use Aeroplan account directly, no need to create MileagePlus account | Must use existing MileagePlus account for login |
| Speed / Service | Fast service via Starlink | Fast service via Bell Telecom |
| Reciprocal Benefit | Aeroplan members can access United Wi-Fi | MileagePlus members can access Air Canada Wi-Fi |
Looking Into the High-Speed Connectivity Shaping These Two Carriers
United Airlines has increasingly focused on deploying Star-link-enabled connectivity, which delivers significantly higher speeds compared to legacy air-to-ground systems.
Aeroplan members flying on United Airlines can enjoy complimentary Starlink Wi-Fi by first adding their Aeroplan number to their United reservation, either at the time of booking or during check-in. Once onboard, passengers can log in to the Wi-Fi portal using their date of birth and United confirmation code (PNR) to activate free access. The service is available for the entire flight, but only on Starlink-equipped aircraft.
However, the reciprocal benefit applies exclusively to aircraft fitted with this infrastructure, meaning passengers on non-equipped aircraft must still purchase Wi-Fi access.
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Air Canada’s participation builds upon its existing strategy of offering complimentary Wi-Fi to Aeroplan members on select routes.
MileagePlus members flying on Air Canada can access complimentary Wi-Fi by first adding their MileagePlus number to their Air Canada reservation. Once onboard, passengers log in to the onboard portal using their last name and seat number to connect. The service is available at no cost for the entire duration of the flight, from departure to arrival.
Air Canada has outlined specific conditions under which passengers can enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi on its North American and sun-destination flights. Business Class travelers automatically receive free access, while Aeroplan members can connect by adding their membership number to the reservation or during check-in.
Additionally, any passengers traveling on the same booking as an Aeroplan member can share this benefit. With the recent partnership, United MileagePlus members can also access free Wi-Fi by entering their MileagePlus number into their Air Canada reservation, extending the perk across both airlines.
All in All
The rollout of reciprocal Wi-Fi marks a broader shift in airline strategy, where connectivity is transitioning from a paid add-on to a loyalty-driven entitlement.
Before relying on Air Canada’s complimentary in-flight Wi-Fi, passengers should be aware of a few important considerations. The service does not support voice calls or VoIP, and not every aircraft is currently equipped, with Air Canada Express Q400s still in the process of installation.
Connection quality can fluctuate depending on network traffic, signal strength, and other technical factors. Additionally, passengers must consent to the use of browsing data for advertising purposes to gain access to the free Wi-Fi.
Also note the following Wi-Fi rates acriss Air Canada:
| Situation | Cost | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Aeroplan Member (North America + Sun) | $0 | Aeroplan number added to reservation |
| MileagePlus Member (North America + Sun) | $0 | MileagePlus number added to reservation |
| Business Class | $0 | Automatic |
| Non-member (Economy) | Up to $21 | Depending on flight duration |
Data: Milesopedia