How to Access In-Flight Entertainment on United Airlines?

To access in-flight entertainment on United Airlines (UA), connect to the Wi-Fi network, open the "United app" or visit "United in-flight entertainment" on your device. And there you are enjoying your personal movie theater mid-air. Having access to UA’s entertainment choices and enjoying your trip to the fullest.

No matter where you are flying on earth, the airline makes sure you are relaxed and entertained throughout your trip. Every traveler enjoys their type of entertainment onboard. Now, go through the information below and know what to expect on UA’s flights when it comes to staying entertained.

How to Access United’s In-Flight Entertainment on Your Device?

Most United aircraft support personal device streaming, which means you can watch movies and TV shows right from your phone, tablet, or laptop. Here's how:

Connect to “United_Wi-Fi” Onboard

Once onboard and at cruising altitude, if you are wondering how to connect to UA Wi-Fi on the flight, follow the steps mentioned below -

• Enable airplane mode
• Turn on Wi-Fi and connect to "United_Wi-Fi"

No internet purchase is necessary for entertainment access; it's free!

Access Free Entertainment

Enjoy free in-flight entertainment on United flights. Here’s how -

• The airline’s app is your best friend when flying. So download it (iOS or Android) on your smartphone, tablet, or laptop.
• Open the airline’s app on your smart device or your browser to use the airline’s entertainment portal for streaming your choice of programs.
• Explore a wide selection of movies, TV shows, and music available on UA flights.
• Stream content directly from your device and enjoy entertainment throughout your journey.
• Download your favorite content before takeoff for offline access and watch at your convenience.
• Discover a diverse range of genres and options to suit every mood and preference.
• Enjoy complimentary access to in-flight entertainment—no extra charges or subscriptions needed.
• Connect your device, settle in, and make your flight experience more enjoyable with endless entertainment options.

Does United Offer Entertainment for Kids?

Yes, kids can also find entertainment streaming, especially for them, on United Airlines flights. So, if you are flying with little ones, the airline makes sure they are happy, too! Look for:

• Animated movies
• Games (on seatback screens)
• Family TV channels
• Kids’ music playlists

Pro tip

Pack snacks and set up their favorite show as soon as you're allowed to use electronic devices.

How to Watch Movies on United Airlines (Step-by-Step)? 

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you watch movies on UA - 

1. Enable Airplane Mode: Make sure your device is in airplane mode before connecting to Wi-Fi.

2. Connect to United_Wi-Fi: Turn on Wi-Fi and select the "United_Wi-Fi" network from the available options.

3. Open the United App or Visit unitedwifi.com: Launch the United Airlines app or go to unitedwifi.com in your browser.

4. Tap “Entertainment”: Once connected, tap the “Entertainment” option in the app or on the website.

5. Choose and Play: Browse the movie selection, pick your movie, and press play to start watching!

What is the United Airlines Wi-Fi Cost to Use on the Flight?

Staying connected while flying is easy with the carrier’s Wi-Fi. Whether you're traveling domestically or internationally, understanding the cost and accessibility of in-flight connectivity ensures a hassle-free experience.

For U.S. domestic and short-haul international routes, including flights to Mexico and Canada -

• MileagePlus® members can access Wi-Fi for just $8 or redeem 800 miles
• Non-members pay $10

On longer international routes, pricing varies based on flight duration and destination. Before boarding, check the latest rates and follow its Wi-Fi connection steps to ensure a seamless browsing experience during your flight.

Please note

United is installing Starlink Wi-Fi across its 1,000+ aircraft. By December 2025, over half of United Express regional jets had Starlink, and the first 737-800 with the service entered service in October 2025. Starlink Wi-Fi is free for United MileagePlus® members. Full fleet rollout will continue over the coming years.

How to Know If My United Flight Has Entertainment?

Before you book, you can check your plane’s features. Here's how:

• Visit the airline’s website or app.
• Go to the "My Trips" section.
• Search your flight
• Click on “Details” under your flight info.
• Look for the United Airlines TV logo under "Inflight Amenities" and “Wi-Fi Available”.

This will indicate if your specific flight has a television system or other entertainment options.

Alternatively, once onboard, flight attendants will announce what entertainment options are available.

What Are United Airlines' In-Flight Entertainment Options?

The airline offers a robust entertainment system branded as United Private Screening - a combo of seatback screens and personal device streaming, depending on the aircraft.

Travelers can access:

• Movies and trending TV shows
• Live DIRECTV (on select flights)
• Games
• Curated music playlists and audiobooks
• Kids’ entertainment

And guess what? It’s free on most flights. All you have to do is connect and have a great time onboard. Moreover, you have fresh entertainment choices every month on UA flights.

Does United Airlines Have TV Screens on Flights?

Yes, United Airlines offers TV screens on many of its aircraft, but it's not available on all flights. Scroll down to know more - 

• Seatback Screens: Available on select planes, typically on longer flights.

• Streaming: On aircraft without seatback screens, passengers can stream movies and shows to their own devices via the United app or Wi-Fi.

• Aircraft Type: The availability of seatback screens varies by aircraft model, with newer planes often featuring them.

• Wi-Fi Requirement: For streaming, you'll need to connect to the in-flight Wi-Fi network, which may come at an additional cost on some flights.

Can You Watch Live TV on United Flights?

Yes, you have DIRECTV on select United flights that offers over 100 live TV channels and latest movies. However, it is aircraft-dependent. Here's what you need to know:

• DIRECTV Availability: Live TV is available on many aircraft equipped with DIRECTV, primarily on longer domestic and international flights.

• Content Options: You can watch popular channels like ESPN for sports, CNN for news, and other entertainment channels.

• Aircraft-Dependent: Not all United flights offer live TV, as it's limited to certain planes with the necessary satellite equipment.

• Additional Notes: Even if live TV is available, you may need to connect to Wi-Fi to access it, and streaming quality can vary depending on your location.

Please note

Live TV is not available on all United flights.

Does United Allow Watching Programs in Other Languages?

Of course, yes. UA provides a variety of language options for its in-flight entertainment, allowing passengers to enjoy movies and TV shows with audio or subtitles in different languages.

Whether you prefer to watch in a specific language or need subtitles for better understanding, you can browse the available options and select the one that suits your preference.

This ensures a more personalized and enjoyable viewing experience throughout your journey. So sit back, relax, and immerse yourself in entertainment tailored to your language needs.

What is the Difference Between In-Flight Wi-Fi and Entertainment Options?

While in-flight entertainment is free, Wi-Fi for browsing or streaming from the internet is not.

Entertainment (Free)

• Movies, TV, and audio accessed via the airline’s app or seatback screens

Wi-Fi (Paid)

• For email, web, social media, Netflix, etc.
• Prices vary by flight and device

Tip

If you just want to enjoy UA's entertainment, don’t buy Wi-Fi; it's not required!

Insider Tips to Maximize the Experience

• Bring your own headphones –The carrier provides you on some flights, but your own pair is more comfortable and of better quality.
• Charge devices pre-flight – Not all seats might have power outlets.
• Download the app ahead of time –Don’t rely on airport Wi-Fi for last-minute downloads.
• Travel with a phone stand –Makes it easier to watch on tray tables.

United Airlines In-Flight Entertainment - Snapshot 

Features	Available on United?
Free movies	Yes
Free TV shows	Yes
Live TV	On select flights
Seatback screens	On many aircraft
Personal device streaming	Yes
Kids content	Yes
Wi-Fi required for entertainment	No

Final Thoughts: Fly United, Stay Entertained

In a nutshell, traveling with UA is relaxing and entertaining. Thanks to United Airlines’ in-flight entertainment, you have a plethora of options. Choose from your favorite music, binge-worthy shows, most-loved movies, and much more. With the airline, your journey is as enjoyable as the destination.

So when you next fly with UA, the best of entertainment awaits you. And for a budget trip, book your flight tickets with Wizfair Travels, where experts are available in real time to assist you. Don’t wait. Grab your affordable tickets with this airline and set off for a trip where you stay entertained throughout the trip.

It’s time to grab your earbuds, switch to airplane mode, and let the streaming begin!

Frequently Asked Questions

Do all United flights have TV screens?

No, only select United aircraft have TV screens. Many planes offer streaming via personal devices instead.

Does United Airlines have free movies?

Yes, United offers free movies on most flights through their in-flight entertainment system or personal device streaming.

How do I access United's in-flight entertainment?

Open your browser and go to www.unitedwifi.com and select the entertainment tile. Select a movie or TV show. Click “Watch” and enjoy.

Is live TV available on United domestic flights?

Yes, live TV is available on select domestic flights equipped with DIRECTV. It's not available on all flights.

How do I select my device if it doesn’t appear?

Pair your seatback screen and headphones. If your device doesn’t appear within 10 seconds, tap “Refresh list”. Still not showing? Toggle Bluetooth audio off and on, and make sure it’s unpaired from other devices.

Can I watch movies on my laptop on United flights?

Yes. you can watch movies on your laptop when flying with UA. Connect to onboard Wi-Fi and stream free movies and TV shows via the airline’s app or website.

Is inflight entertainment free on United?

Yes. It offers complimentary inflight entertainment. Enjoy free movies, TV shows, and more on seatback screens or personal devices.

Does United Airlines have TV on domestic flights?

Many United domestic flights feature seatback TVs with access to movies, TV shows, and even live channels. Yes, United offers movies and TV on most domestic flights via seatback screens, live DIRECTV, or the United app. If your aircraft doesn’t have seatback screens, you can still stream entertainment for free on your own device using its app.