Do Southwest airlines have TVs? Here’s Everything You Need To Know

If you're wondering whether does Southwest Airlines have TVs on their planes, here's the answer: No, Southwest doesn't install traditional seatback TV screens on any of their aircraft. Instead, the airline has embraced a modern, bring-your-own-device (BYOD) entertainment system that gives you access to free movies, live TV, and more, all streaming directly to your phone, tablet, or laptop.​​ Read our blog to know everything about inflight entertainment on Southwest Airlines. 

What Southwest Offers Instead of Seatback Screens

Does Southwest have TVs on the plane? Not in the traditional sense, but they've built an entertainment portal that might actually be better. Here's what you get access to completely free when you connect to Southwest WiFi:​​

• Live TV Channels: Southwest streams 12 live TV channels including ABC, CBS, CNBC, CNN, ESPN, Fox, Fox News, HGTV, NBC, NFL Network, TBS, and USA. You can catch live sports, news, and your favorite shows right from takeoff to landing.​
• On-Demand Movies: A rotating selection of Hollywood films, including new releases and classic favorites, all available to stream for free through your browser.​​
• TV Series: Binge-worthy shows like Parks and Recreation, The Office, and other popular series are available on demand.​
• Music Streaming: Access to iHeartRadio lets you listen to music throughout your flight.​​
• Free Messaging: Stay connected with friends and family using iMessage and WhatsApp at no charge (apps must be downloaded before your flight).​
• Flight Tracker: Monitor your flight's progress in real-time through the entertainment portal.​

How to Access Entertainment (No App Required)

Accessing inflight entertainment on Southwest Airlines is incredibly simple and doesn't require downloading the Southwest app anymore. Here's how to connect:​

1. Switch your device to airplane mode, then turn WiFi back on
2. Select "SouthwestWiFi" from your available networks
3. Open any web browser and visit southwestwifi. It usually loads automatically. 
4. Start streaming—no registration, no app download, no payment required

The entertainment portal works even when the paid internet service isn't functioning, since content is stored onboard the aircraft.​

Also Read: Southwest Pet Policy

What You'll Need to Bring

Since Southwest does not have TVs on their airplanes, you'll need to come prepared:​

• Your Own Device: Bring a smartphone, tablet, or laptop. Make sure it's fully charged before boarding, as not all Southwest planes currently have charging ports.
• Headphones: Southwest doesn't provide complimentary headphones, so pack your own. Any standard headphones will work since you're streaming to your personal device.​

Power Ports on Southwest Airlines 

Southwest is actively installing USB-A and USB-C power ports on every seat in their fleet. All new Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft delivered starting October 2025 feature these charging ports, capable of delivering up to 60 watts of power which is enough to charge phones, tablets, and many laptops. The airline plans to retrofit existing 737-700 and 737-800 aircraft with power ports starting in mid-2026.​

Until your plane gets upgraded, charge your devices fully before boarding. Many Southwest gate areas have power outlets you can use while waiting for your flight.​

Internet Access

The free entertainment portal is separate from internet browsing. If you want to check emails, browse the web, or use social media, you'll need to purchase WiFi for $8 per device per flight. However, as of October 2024, all Rapid Rewards members get free WiFi on unlimited devices.​

• Important WiFi Restrictions: Southwest's WiFi doesn't support high-bandwidth streaming services like Netflix, HBO GO, or Amazon Prime. The airline blocks these services to maintain network performance for all passengers.​
• International Flight Limitations: On international routes, Southwest's free entertainment and WiFi are typically only available during the domestic portion of your flight. Once you leave U.S. airspace, connectivity may be limited or unavailable.​

Conclusion

Does Southwest have TVs on the seats? No, but their free streaming entertainment portal offers a surprisingly comprehensive alternative. With 12 live TV channels, dozens of movies, on-demand TV shows, music streaming, and free messaging. Moreover, all accessible through any web browser on your personal device, Southwest has created an entertainment system that's both cost-effective and traveler-friendly.​​ So, what are you waiting for? Book your Southwest flights through Travelpodium now.