United Airlines has updated its Contract of Carriage on February 27 2026 to require headphones for all audio and video playback.
Under the revised rules, playing content out loud falls under Rule 21 and allows crews to refuse transport or ban passengers who refuse to comply. The policy also prohibits video calls once aircraft doors close. Complimentary wired earbuds are available on request subject to availability.
The change aligns with the rollout of Starlink satellite Wi-Fi that enables high-quality streaming.
