Football fans traveling this season can officially stop stressing about their flight schedules. Thanks to a newly announced partnership with DISH, United Airlines is bringing live professional and college football broadcasts directly to Starlink-enabled seatback screens.
Live Games at 35,000 Feet
Starting this week, passengers on select domestic flights will have live access to major networks including ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, FS1, ESPN, ESPN2, NFL Network, and TNF on Prime Video. Utilizing DISH's OnStream platform and Starlink's high-speed satellite Wi-Fi, the service ensures fans can catch the action seamlessly from kickoff to the final whistle.
The live broadcasts are currently available on more than 200 Starlink-equipped mainline aircraft—covering approximately 700 flights per day. United plans to rapidly expand this capability, aiming to have the service active on nearly 700 aircraft by the time the big game rolls around in February.
- Free for MileagePlus Members: As with all Starlink connectivity on United flights, the live TV streaming is completely free for MileagePlus members across all cabins.
- Multi-Screen Multitasking: With Starlink's robust bandwidth, passengers can watch the game on their seatback screen while simultaneously using their personal devices to check fantasy rosters, text friends, or even stream a second game.
Deepening Football Ties
This inflight tech upgrade is just the latest move in United's broader sports strategy. The carrier currently sponsors nine professional football teams and expects to operate over 200 team charter flights for 11 different franchises this season. To celebrate the season, United has also launched the second year of its "Football Flies United" advertising campaign, featuring prominent players and coaches to highlight the importance of arriving at your destination refreshed and ready to perform.
With United expecting to complete its fleet-wide Starlink installation by the end of 2027, the days of missing crucial third-down plays while cruising at 35,000 feet are quickly coming to an end.
