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Pay attention: United Airlines new policy could get you fined. Scrolling through social media or watching videos out loud in public spaces is often considered a nuisance. Still, now it could get you kicked off your next United Airlines flight.
While many travelers may think it’s common sense to wear headphones when listening to audio or watching video content onboard a plane, United Airlines recently upgraded this etiquette rule to an officially enforceable requirement.
The Chicago-based carrier quietly revised its contract of carriage on Feb. 27. The update now lists “passengers who fail to use headphones while listening to audio or video content” as a potential reason the airline may refuse to transport someone, which could even result in a permanent ban.
United confirmed the change in a statement to USA TODAY, explaining that headphone use has always been encouraged. Still, with enhanced in-flight internet service rolling out across the United fleet, the airline was compelled to make the rule more explicit.
“With the expansion of Starlink, it seemed like a good time to make that even clearer by adding it to the contract of carriage,” United said in a statement.
A contract of carriage outlines the legally binding terms passengers accept when purchasing a ticket.
Under United’s Refusal of Transport section, the airline states it has “the right to refuse transport on a permanent or temporary basis or may remove disruptive persons from the aircraft at any point.”
The headphone rule appears under the airline’s safety section, meaning a passenger might be removed from a flight if their behavior is disruptive or a safety concern for others onboard.
The policy also lists several other actions that could lead to removal or a ban from flying with the airline.
These include wearing clothing deemed obscene or offensive; violating the no-smoking policy; or making a phone or video call after the aircraft doors have closed, while taxiing for takeoff, or during the flight.
Travelers who forget their headphones still have options.
United says passengers can ask the crew for complimentary earbuds if they are available.
In the event of a policy violation, the United Airlines flight crew will notify the gate agents or security personnel to have the passenger removed. For those who violate in-flight policies that affect safety regulations, violators could be fined up to $25,000. The airlines also reserve the right to temporarily or permanently ban violators.
Jessica is a freelance journalist on a quest to see and experience everything our gorgeous planet offers and share her experiences with her fellow travelers. Jessica has written for several world-class Travel Magazines.
