United and DIRECTV have launched a live television streaming service on Starlink-enabled aircraft, allowing passengers to watch live sports, news and entertainment directly on seatback screens during their flights.
The service is available through July 20 on as many as 150 Starlink-equipped aircraft and gives travelers free access to more than a dozen live television channels. The rollout comes in time for one of the summer’s biggest international soccer tournaments, allowing passengers to follow matches while in the air.
Passengers flying on participating aircraft can access live content from channels including FOX, Fox Sports 1, Apple F1, ABC, ESPN, TNT, CNN, CBS, NBC, TBS and BBC News. The programming includes live soccer coverage, other sports events, breaking news, weather updates, business reports and entertainment content.
The initiative combines DIRECTV IN FLIGHT programming with Starlink connectivity, enabling real-time streaming on seatback screens rather than relying solely on preloaded entertainment options.
According to United Airlines, the service demonstrates how high-speed satellite connectivity can transform the inflight entertainment experience. The airline said the trial allows customers to experience live television through the same seatback screens traditionally used for on-demand movies and television shows.
United Expands Starlink Connectivity Across Fleet
In 2024, United Airlines signed an agreement with SpaceX to bring Starlink internet service to its mainline and regional fleet. The deal was described by the airline as the largest agreement of its kind in the aviation industry.
Today, Starlink service is active on more than 400 United mainline and United Express aircraft. The carrier expects to equip its entire fleet with the connectivity platform before the end of 2027.
The airline offers Starlink-powered Wi-Fi free of charge to members of its MileagePlus loyalty program. The service is designed to provide faster and more reliable internet access than traditional inflight connectivity systems, enabling activities such as video streaming, gaming and real-time communications.
Andrew Nocella, Chief Commercial Officer of United Airlines, said: “United is adding Starlink to more aircraft than any other airline in the world and teaming up with DIRECTV is a way for us to give customers a glimpse into the future of inflight entertainment with live sports and do it during one of the world’s most popular sporting events.
He added: “Our journey started nearly a decade ago with a decision to install screens in every seat. We already have more than 160,000 screens across our fleet, with plans to basically double that number soon via new deliveries and retrofits. But just having static screens with On Demand content was never our end game.”
Nocella continued: “The real customer benefit happens when those screens are dynamic and offer real-time, streaming content just like your phone. That’s where the combination of Starlink’s reliable and fast connectivity and DIRECTV IN FLIGHT live TV is a game-changer.”
Seatback Screens Move Beyond On Demand Content
The live streaming service operates through the Viasat Live TV and Thales 360 web-enabled applications. These platforms deliver live television content to aircraft using Starlink connectivity and display it on seatback entertainment systems.
The launch reflects a broader shift in airline entertainment strategies as carriers invest in faster satellite internet services and upgraded cabin technology. Airlines increasingly view connectivity as a key competitive advantage, allowing passengers to access streaming services and live content similar to what they use on the ground.
For travelers, the addition of live television means major sporting events, breaking news and real-time programming can now be watched during flights, reducing the gap between the connected experience on the ground and in the air.
