United Airlines Requires Headphone Use for in-cabin Audio

CHICAGO — United Airlines (UA) has formally added a headphone requirement to its Contract of Carriage, stating that passengers who play audio or video without headphones may be refused transport, removed from a flight, or, in some cases, temporarily or permanently banned.

The update, added in late February 2026, places the headphone requirement under UA’s conduct rules for “Refusal of Transport,” granting the airline clear authority to act if a customer does not comply.

Reason for change: Wi-Fi streaming is now common

United stated the change clarifies expectations as onboard connectivity expands, especially with the rollout of Starlink-powered Wi-Fi, which enables easier in-flight streaming of video and audio.

Key information for passengers

• The policy applies throughout UA’s network, including U.S.–France routes and all connecting itineraries.
• United notes that customers who forget headphones may request complimentary earbuds from the crew, subject to availability.

In practice, this change formalizes common courtesy by making headphone use an explicit contract requirement as in-cabin streaming becomes more common.