United Airlines To Remove Passengers Who Play Sounds Without Headphones

Travelers who may have forgotten their headphones can simply request free earbuds if a pair is available.

United Airlines can now refuse to transport passengers who play media without headphones.

Wearing headphones while playing sounds is considered proper etiquette, but United has made it a requirement.

The Chicago-based airline subtly updated its contract. It now includes, “passengers who fail to use headphones while listening to audio or video content” as a reason for refusal of transport, with the potential for a permanent ban from the airline.

Passengers agree to terms when purchasing a ticket and the contract now gives United “the right to refuse transport on a permanent or temporary basis or shall have the right to remove from the aircraft at any point.”

The addition is listed under safety. That means the refusal or removal of a passenger “may be necessary” for the safety of everyone aboard the flight. Travelers who may have forgotten their headphones can simply request free earbuds if a pair is available.

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