Does United Airlines Have TVs On Their Planes? 2026

When you are on a United Airlines flight, I’m sure you want to have things like TV screens and lots of amusing things to do, especially in a long haul flight.

But does United Airlines have TVs in its inflight entertainment?

Yes, most United Airlines planes have TVs on their seats, but not all of them. Some planes have seatback screens, while others let you watch shows and movies on your own device, like a phone or tablet

This post cover will answer all your questions about United inflight entertainment, and if United Airlines has TVs and seat back screens on its aircraft.

Let’s dive right in.

TL;DR

  • Most United Airlines planes have TVs.
  • If no seatback screen, you can stream for free on your phone, tablet, or laptop through United’s Wi-Fi.
  • You can watch movies, TV shows, games, and live TV (within the continental U.S.).
  • Live TV and many movies are free on board.
  • Wi-Fi is available on almost all flights, with paid plans and some options using MileagePlus miles.
Close-up of a United Airlines seatback screen with text asking 'Does United Airlines Have TVs

Do United Flights Have TV Screens?

Yes, United has just launched its new TV screens.

The newest seatback entertainment system has more content and new features so you can enjoy more on board.

You can watch TV on board United flights, personalize your entertainment options, and enjoy hours of movies, TV shows, and games.

When you are finished with the TV screen, you can either press the brightness-minus button until the screen goes dark or press the button labeled “off” on the passenger remote control to switch the screen off.

How Do I Access Inflight Entertainment on United?

Before boarding, make sure to explore and check if United Airlines has TVs and other inflight amenities, and have an idea about the various types of inflight entertainment available on your flight.

In addition, check if your device can support the airline’s inflight systems.

You can visit United private screening site to find out which entertainment options will be provided on your upcoming flight.

Please note that if the aircraft scheduled for your flight changes, the amenities may change as well.

Here is how to access United inflight entertainment on your mobile or your laptop:

Instructions from United Airlines on how to access personal device entertainment on mobile and laptops

Can You Watch Movies on United Airlines?

Yes, you can watch movies on United Airlines.

All movies start approximately six minutes after the airplane door closes. Prior to the movie starting, movie trailers will be running.

In the seatback, you can select and save a list of podcasts, movies, and TV shows to enjoy later in the flight.

Does United Have Live TV?

According to United Airlines, yes, United has Live TV on its airplanes. However, the satellite coverage area for DIRECTV is the continental U.S., so you will not be able to watch live programming as flights travel out of the continental U.S.

You can still have access to previously recorded programming.

Live TV and hit movies are free of charge on board United airplanes.

Does United Have Wi-Fi?

Yes, United Airlines has Wi-Fi on board almost all its aircraft.

You can choose a plan and purchase Wi-Fi to access all the features (messaging, browsing the internet, and more) while you’re in the air.

If you are flying on a United or United Express flight equipped with Wi-Fi, MileagePlus members can use their miles to purchase a Wi-Fi plan on select flights.

Please note that United Wi-Fi pricing will vary.

If you are a frequent flyer with United, you can always access the internet during any United Wi-Fi enabled flight for an entire month or year.

United offers multiple plans by region to best accommodate your travel. Send emails and messages, catch up on social media, or browse your favorite sites.

Final Thoughts: Do United Planes Have TVs?

Yes, most United Airlines planes have TVs.

On many flights, there are seatback screens where you can enjoy movies, TV shows, play games, and even watch live TV.

If your plane doesn’t have seatback screens, you can still watch entertainment for free on your phone, tablet, or laptop by connecting to United’s Wi-Fi.

No matter what type of plane you’re on, United has ways to keep you entertained from takeoff to landing.

I hope this helps

Happy travels

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Alyssa Chua