United Airlines Implements New Headphone Policy

Passengers who fail to use headphones could face removal from flights and potential bans.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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United Airlines has quietly updated its 'Contract of Carriage' document to include a new policy requiring passengers to use headphones when listening to audio or video content on their devices. The policy falls under the 'Refusal of Transport' section, meaning non-compliance could lead to removal from the flight and potential permanent bans from the airline.

Why it matters

This new headphone policy is part of United's broader effort to crack down on disruptive and inconsiderate passenger behavior. It comes as the airline prepares for its busiest summer yet at O'Hare International Airport, where it is expanding operations.

The details

The updated policy states that United 'shall have the right to refuse transport on a permanent or temporary basis or shall have the right to remove from the aircraft at any point, any Passenger' who 'fails to use headphones while listening to audio or video content.' If a passenger forgets their headphones, they can request a free pair from the flight attendant, subject to availability.

  • The new headphone policy was added to United's 'Contract of Carriage' on February 27, 2026.

The players

United Airlines

A major U.S. airline headquartered in Chicago, Illinois.

Kye Martin

A traffic reporter for NBC 5 in Chicago.

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What they’re saying

“Non-compliance of the rule can lead to removal from the flight and potential permanent bans.”

— Kye Martin, NBC 5 traffic reporter (NBC 5)

What’s next

The Federal Aviation Administration is set to hold a meeting to address overscheduling and 'severe congestion' at O'Hare International Airport, where United is expanding its operations.

The takeaway

United's new headphone policy is part of the airline's broader efforts to maintain order and curb disruptive passenger behavior as it prepares for its busiest summer yet at O'Hare. The policy highlights the airline's willingness to take strong measures, including potential bans, to enforce its rules and ensure a pleasant travel experience for all passengers.