You can continue to enjoy free live TV and on-demand shows while flying. DISH and Southwest Airlines are extending their "TV Flies Free" promotion through December 31.
Southwest customers can enjoy DISH service on their iOS, Android and other Internet-ready devices. Programming includes nearly 20 live TV channels and up to 75 on-demand shows on the airline's nearly 440 Wi-Fi-enabled aircraft.
DISH and Southwest originally made "TV Flies Free" available in July 2013. Since that time, millions of Southwest customers have enjoyed television programming during their flight free of charge.
“Since the FAA changed its rules regarding personal electronic device usage, mobile video viewing on Southwest Airlines flights has increased more than 20 percent,” said James Moorhead, DISH Chief Marketing Officer. “By extending our partnership with Southwest we are able to give their Customers a sample of what DISH customers experience on a daily basis, their favorite TV programs, anytime, anywhere and at no additional cost, simply the best mobile TV experience.”
To celebrate the extended partnership, DISH will continue offering new customers who sign up for the Hopper and a qualified programming package 12,500 Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards points and a free iPad Mini.
The live TV and on-demand programming available on Southwest are part of a suite of products delivered by Global Eagle to the airline. Powered through Ku-band satellite technology, the platform, which includes high-speed Internet, messaging and destination services is now available to Customers at all stages of flight, and Southwest is still the only U.S. airline able to offer gate-to-gate connectivity and messaging services.
Once onboard a Wi-Fi-equipped plane, Southwest Customers can connect to the Wi-Fi network and launch their Internet browser to be directed to the Southwest Airlines Entertainment Portal. From there, passengers can access live TV and on-demand programs free of charge, compliments of DISH.