United Airlines Updates Policy to Require Headphones for Audio/Video Use

United Airlines has updated its contract of carriage to require all passengers to use headphones when listening to audio or video content on personal electronic devices during flights. The policy change was made on February 27th, according to reports from CBS News, Fox News Digital, and The New York Post. This is the first major U.S. airline to formally include this requirement in its legally binding passenger agreement.

The new rule states that passengers must wear headphones when listening to music, watching videos, or using social media apps with sound. United Airlines reserves the right to remove any passenger who fails to comply and may ban them from future flights. Passengers who forget their headphones can request complimentary earbuds from the crew.

The updated language appears under the airline's 'refusal of transport' section, which outlines circumstances under which United may deny boarding or remove a passenger from a flight. The policy also states that travelers who cause loss, damage, or expense of any kind may be responsible for reimbursing the airline.

United Airlines spokesperson confirmed that the expansion of Starlink Wi-Fi access on their planes influenced the decision to implement this rule. The airline has always encouraged passengers to use headphones but has now made it a formal policy to address common in-flight noise complaints, as reported by Fox News Digital. Travel expert Scott Keyes told CBS News that this rule aligns with how most travelers prefer to comport themselves and is a graceful way to handle those who make noise without using headphones.

The new policy has sparked strong reactions online. Some passengers expressed support for the change, while others noted that it gives crew members more authority to enforce good in-flight etiquette. Etiquette expert Jacqueline Whitmore told Fox 32 Chicago that she believes this will lead to flight attendants giving warnings before banning passengers due to a lack of using headphones.

The policy reflects growing frustration among travelers over so-called 'speakerphone flyers' who play videos, music or social media clips aloud during flights. Frequent flyers have long complained that the behavior disrupts the cabin and creates tension on already crowded planes. Under the new rules, however, those passengers could now face far more serious consequences than a few annoyed looks from fellow travelers.