United Airlines has updated its Contract of Carriage to require headphones for audio or video on personal devices, with violations potentially leading to removal from flights or permanent bans. Added on February 27, 2026, the policy addresses disruptive noise as the airline rolls out Starlink Wi-Fi on more planes.
United Airlines, based in Chicago, quietly revised its "Contract of Carriage" on February 27, 2026, adding a new rule under Section 21, "Refusal of Transport" (item 22). It states that passengers failing to use headphones while listening to audio or video content—including music, videos, or social media—may be refused transport, removed from the aircraft, or banned permanently or temporarily.
The airline's spokesperson explained to NBC Chicago and Gizmodo that while headphone use has long been encouraged via Wi-Fi rules, the expansion of Starlink internet—now on over 300 aircraft with 500 more planned by end-2026—prompted formalizing it in the contract. United is the first major U.S. airline to enforce such a strict rule, per WSVN 7News, amid efforts to curb inconsiderate behavior.
This falls under safety-related provisions passengers agree to when buying tickets. Similar refusals can apply to offenses like offensive clothing, smoking violations, or in-flight calls after doors close. Travel expert Scott Keyes told CBS News no other major carrier ties headphone non-use to bans, calling it a 'graceful' way to handle the few disruptive passengers.
Flight attendants may provide free earbuds if passengers forget theirs, subject to availability. The update aligns with United's ramp-up at O'Hare International Airport, planning 750 daily summer flights—the largest schedule there.
