According to a passenger survey by CableTV.com, travelers rated several U.S. carriers for the quality and variety of their in-flight entertainment. The results highlight airlines that provide streaming apps, seatback systems, live TV and device-charging options to keep passengers engaged during flights.
At the top of the list is Alaska Airlines. Alaska offers the Gogo Entertainment App, which lets passengers stream TV shows, games, music and nearly 200 movies on personal devices such as tablets and laptops. The app-based approach gives travelers flexibility to watch content on their own screens throughout the flight.
Southwest ranks second, providing an in-flight entertainment portal accessible through its mobile app or directly via a web browser without WiFi. This makes content available to passengers even if they haven’t installed the app. Travelers should note they need to bring their own headphones and devices to view the selection.
Delta stands out for offering individual USB outlets at many seats, so passengers can keep phones and tablets charged while streaming. Delta Studio also offers an extensive seatback and streaming library, including more than 300 movies and live satellite TV channels, providing options for both passengers with and without personal devices.
Tied for fourth place are American Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, JetBlue and United Airlines. These carriers offer a range of seatback entertainment options, from live TV and DirecTV-style services to curated travel video series. Many of these airlines also provide power outlets and mobile streaming capabilities. JetBlue additionally offers in-flight WiFi on its flights, making it easier for passengers to stream content directly on their devices.
Overall, the survey emphasizes that modern U.S. carriers are increasingly focused on offering flexible entertainment choices: app-based streaming for personal devices, traditional seatback systems for passengers who prefer built-in screens, and power outlets to support longer streaming sessions. Travelers planning a trip may want to check each airline’s current entertainment features, device requirements and availability on specific aircraft to make the best choice for their in-flight viewing preferences.