United Airlines will showcase its Starlink in-flight Wi-Fi during the 2026 ESPN Fantasy Football Draft. ESPN host and fantasy football expert Tyler Fulghum will make his draft picks from a United flight at around 35,000 feet. Other ESPN experts will join the live event from the network’s broadcast studio in Bristol, Connecticut. The unusual broadcast will show how fast in-flight internet can help passengers stay connected to important events while traveling.
What Is United Airlines Planning?
United Airlines and Disney Advertising have partnered to bring part of the ESPN Fantasy Football Draft aboard a United flight. Tyler Fulghum will participate in the live draft from a Starlink-equipped United aircraft. He will communicate with his colleagues on the ground and make his picks during the broadcast. The event will combine live sports, air travel and satellite internet. It will also demonstrate how United’s Starlink Wi-Fi performs during a live broadcast at cruising altitude.
When and Where Can Fans Watch the Draft?
The 2026 ESPN Fantasy Football Draft will take place on August 25. Fans can watch the event using the following details:
- Date: August 25, 2026
- Time: 9 p.m. to 11 p.m. ET
- Television: ESPN
- Online: NFL on ESPN YouTube channel
Viewers should check the official ESPN schedule before the event in case the network changes the broadcast time.
How Will Starlink Support the Live Broadcast?
Starlink uses a network of satellites to provide internet connectivity. Unlike older in-flight internet systems, it aims to offer higher speeds and more reliable coverage during a flight.
During the ESPN Fantasy Football Draft, Fulghum will use the connection to follow the event and make live selections from the aircraft. This requires a stable connection because fantasy football drafts depend on real-time updates and quick decisions. United describes Starlink as fast and reliable in-flight Wi-Fi. The live draft will give the airline an opportunity to demonstrate that performance during a two-hour broadcast.
United Airlines Expands Starlink Across Its Fleet
In 2024, United partnered with SpaceX to add Starlink Wi-Fi to its mainline and regional planes. At the time, United described it as the airline industry’s largest agreement of its kind. Starlink is now active on more than 500 United and United Express aircraft. The airline provides the service free to MileagePlus members on equipped flights.
However, not every United aircraft currently offers Starlink. Travelers should check the listed amenities for their flight and remember that an aircraft change could affect Wi-Fi availability. Passengers who want to use the free service should create a MileagePlus account before traveling. United does not charge passengers to join the loyalty program.
Tyler Fulghum Will Film a Commercial on Board
Fulghum will also film a new commercial during the flight. Disney Advertising, ESPN and United Airlines will produce it. ESPN will air the commercial during its coverage of the 2026 Fantasy Football Marathon. It will show how passengers can stay connected to important sports moments while flying.
United Airlines will take the 2026 ESPN Fantasy Football Draft to 35,000 feet with help from Starlink Wi-Fi. Tyler Fulghum will make live picks from the aircraft while other experts participate from ESPN’s studio.
The event will allow United to showcase its expanding in-flight internet service and show passengers how they can stay connected while traveling. Planning an upcoming journey? Explore Indian Eagle deals to find affordable international flights and enjoy a more budget-friendly travel experience.
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