United Airlines has added a nifty new “Control Tower” mode to its inboard IFE screens, allowing passengers to track the planes around them in real-time.
United Airlines Control Tower Mode On IFE Screens
JonNYC shares about a new component of United’s inflight-entertainment system that allows passengers to track the aircraft around them while on the ground, including where they are headed:
Have you ever wondered where the airplane parked next to yours is heading? How about when you’re taxiing, and you see a plane take off? Well, you’re in luck, because we just launched our new Control Tower mode on our IFE screens on board – allowing you to see all the planes near you, including their flight number and destination.
The feature will be gradually integrated into United’s IFE systems and works with FlightPath3D to display real-time data:
The new feature is currently available on select flights during boarding, taxi out, taxi in and landing. Control Tower mode is powered by FlightPath3D and it delivers a detailed visual representation of real-time aircraft positioning while the plane is on the ground. It’s fully integrated with the FlightPath3D map, allowing a consistent and intuitive user interface.
Dominic Green, United’s Inflight Entertainment Director, said:
“We know that our passengers love the moving map, with well over an hour of map viewing time on a typical flight. Because of its popularity we’re constantly looking for ways to add more useful features and content. Control Tower mode is not only a really cool addition for our av-geek flyers but it’s also a useful tool for all customers. They’ll be able to better understand what’s going on around them at a busy airport and even see where their connecting aircraft might be. And in the spirit of continuous innovation it’s a feature that’s exclusive to United for a full year.”
As a proud av-geek, I LOVE this feature. In fact, I already use my phone to track the flights around me but this feature will make it even easier on United Next-equipped aircraft (those aircraft that feature United’s new updated interiors with larger overhead bins, mood lighting, and seatback screens).
— JonNYC (@xJonNYC) January 17, 2025
I can’t wait to check this out myself!
I wonder how much you’ll actually get to see between the myriad of announcements and security video.
You’ll at least get plenty of time on your scenic tour of ORD.
Ha! Taxi times are ridiculous
Too bad it’s only available on the ground. If you’re connected to wifi, you can use the flightradar app but it would be nice to have it on seat back.
Bring back channel 9! On all planes!
This.
Hear, hear!
That was the best reason to fly united! Then when my plane was diverted I learned if the pilots lips are moving, he is lying. First the crew told us couldn’t listen anymore. I secretly kept it on. Then everytime atc gave him instructions pilot would come on intercom and say something different.
Yes Please!!!
Yes, please!
If they put Starlinks on all planes, why not just stream FlightRadar24, FlightAware, and liveATC.com? Although, I did really like Channel 9 when they had it.
Surprised you didnt already use FlightRadar24.
I do.
The pax can give ATC a hand!
Many years ago Northwest assigned an audio channel to ATC communications with aircraft. Loved it!
United did this – Channel 9.