Last Updated on July 24, 2026 by Daniel Globe
Alaska Airlines offers free inflight movies and TV shows, but the exact titles can change as the entertainment library rotates. Depending on the aircraft, you may watch on a seatback screen or stream to your own phone, tablet, or laptop. This guide explains what is available, how to connect, what to prepare, and what to do if the entertainment portal does not load.
Quick Answer
Alaska Airlines currently advertises more than 1,000 free movies and TV episodes. The exact catalog rotates, so the most reliable way to see what is playing on your flight is to connect onboard and open AlaskaWiFi.com, or use the seatback screen when your aircraft has one.
Key Takeaways
- Alaska Airlines says its inflight library includes more than 1,000 movies and TV episodes.
- The built-in entertainment library is free where offered. Paid internet is a separate service.
- Your viewing method depends on the aircraft. Some flights use seatback screens, while others stream to your device.
- Bring headphones and charge your device before boarding.
- Movie titles, aircraft assignments, Wi-Fi systems, and entertainment availability can change before departure.
What Movies Are Available on Alaska Airlines?
Alaska Airlines does not promise one fixed movie list for every flight. Its official inflight entertainment page says passengers can choose from more than 1,000 movies and TV episodes, including films and shows across different genres. The selection can rotate, and the available catalog may depend on the aircraft and entertainment system.
You can expect a mix of newer films, older favorites, TV episodes, documentaries, family content, and other programming. However, a title shown on one flight may not appear on another. For that reason, avoid planning your whole trip around one specific movie unless you have also downloaded a backup to your device.
| Offering | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Movies | A rotating mix of recent, classic, independent, and genre titles |
| TV shows | Episodes from a range of series and categories |
| Family content | Kid-friendly and all-ages options when included in the current catalog |
| Seatback features | Movies, TV, and a moving map on equipped aircraft |
| Personal streaming | Free onboard titles streamed through AlaskaWiFi.com on supported aircraft |
Note: Alaska’s public website describes the size and delivery of its entertainment library, but it does not provide a permanent title list that is guaranteed for every flight. Check the onboard portal for the catalog available on your aircraft.
How to Check the Current Alaska Airlines Movie List
The best place to check the exact movies on your flight is the onboard entertainment portal. The catalog is tied to the aircraft’s current system, so a third-party movie list may be incomplete or outdated.
At a Glance
| Time Required | About 2 to 5 minutes after the onboard network becomes available |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Tools Needed | A charged phone, tablet, or laptop, a current web browser, and headphones |
| Cost | Free for the onboard movie and TV library where available |
- Turn on Airplane Mode. Keep the cellular connection off, then turn Wi-Fi back on.
- Connect to the onboard network. The name may appear as “Alaskawifi.com” or a similar Alaska Wi-Fi network shown in the cabin instructions.
- Open a normal browser window. Visit AlaskaWiFi.com. If the page does not open automatically, type the address yourself.
- Choose entertainment. Select the movies and TV option shown in the portal.
- Browse the current catalog. Filter or scroll through the titles available on that flight.
- Select a title and play it. Use headphones and keep the device secured during turbulence.
Pro Tip: Open the onboard portal before buying internet. Alaska’s movie and TV library is free where offered, so you normally do not need a paid internet plan just to watch the included titles.
How Alaska Airlines Entertainment Works by Aircraft
Your experience depends on the aircraft and its installed system. Alaska’s dedicated entertainment page highlights seatback screens on the Boeing 787 Dreamliner and personal-device streaming on the Boeing 737 fleet. Other current Alaska flight-experience pages also describe personal-device viewing on E175 flights and seatback screens on A330 flights.
| Aircraft or System | Typical Viewing Method | What You Should Bring |
|---|---|---|
| Boeing 737 | Stream onboard entertainment to your own device | Charged device and headphones |
| Embraer E175 | Personal-device entertainment or internet-based streaming, depending on configuration | Device, headphones, and downloaded backup content |
| Boeing 787 Dreamliner | Seatback touchscreen entertainment | Your own headphones if you prefer them, though complimentary earbuds may be provided |
| Airbus A330 | Seatback entertainment on flights described in Alaska’s current cabin pages | Headphones and optional personal device |
| Starlink-equipped flight | Fast internet may let you stream from your own subscriptions | App logins, device, headphones, and a backup download |
Aircraft assignments can change for operational reasons. Even when your reservation shows one aircraft, a swap may change the available screen, Wi-Fi, charging, or entertainment setup. Treat the flight details and the system you see onboard as the final guide.
Seatback Entertainment on the 787
Alaska says its 787 Dreamliner has 1080p HD touchscreen monitors, more than 1,000 movies and TV shows, USB-A and USB-C charging, and a moving map. This setup does not require you to hold your own device for the whole flight.
Streaming to Your Own Device
On supported aircraft, the entertainment is stored or delivered through the onboard system and plays in your browser. You connect to the aircraft network, open AlaskaWiFi.com, and choose a title. The included library is separate from paid web browsing.
Streaming Your Own Subscriptions
On flights with fast enough internet, you may be able to use services such as Netflix, Hulu, YouTube, or another subscription you already pay for. This is different from Alaska’s free onboard catalog. You need the service’s app or website, your login details, and suitable internet access.
New Releases and Rotating Categories
Alaska Airlines updates its entertainment selection over time, so new releases and featured collections can appear while older titles leave. The airline has also used its library to feature independent films, festival selections, and stories from different communities. That history shows why the catalog may include more than major studio releases.
Why Exact Titles Change
Airline entertainment rights are licensed for set periods. Aircraft also need updated content packages or portal data. As a result, an online list copied weeks earlier may not match your flight. The onboard portal is the best source for the titles loaded or available that day.
Genres You May Find
The exact mix varies, but a large library may include action, comedy, drama, documentary, family, romance, thriller, international, and television categories. Use the portal filters when available instead of scrolling through the full catalog.
Family-Friendly Movies on Alaska Airlines
Families can look for children’s programming, animation, and all-ages titles in the onboard catalog. Because the selection rotates, review the rating, runtime, and description before starting a movie for a child. A short film or a few TV episodes may work better than a long movie on a regional flight.
Bring child-sized headphones that fit comfortably. Downloading a familiar backup show before leaving home is also smart, especially when your child expects a specific title or the flight is operated by an aircraft with limited entertainment.
Note: Parents should review each title rather than relying only on the category name. Airline libraries can include content for many age groups, and parental controls may not work the same way as they do on your home streaming account.
Is Alaska Airlines Inflight Entertainment Free?
Yes. Alaska describes its onboard movies and TV shows as free. You should not need to buy a movie ticket, reserve a viewing time, or pay for a premium screen format. This is inflight content, not a theater service.
Paid internet is different. Alaska currently lists Standard and Basic paid Wi-Fi at $8 per flight. It also offers free Starlink access to Atmos Rewards members on select flights during the fleet rollout. Prices, aircraft coverage, and membership rules can change, so check the official Wi-Fi page before travel.
| Service | Typical Cost | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Alaska onboard movie and TV library | Free where available | Watch included entertainment |
| Standard or Basic paid internet | $8 per flight under Alaska’s current published pricing | Browse, chat, email, or stream where the connection supports it |
| Free texting | Free on supported flights | Text-only messaging through supported apps |
| Your own streaming subscription | Subscription plus any required internet access | Watch your personal Netflix, Hulu, or similar account |
Captions, Headphones, and Accessibility
Alaska says closed captions are available on many titles when the studio or distributor supplies an airline version with captions. Look for the CC symbol or caption control after selecting a movie. Caption availability is not guaranteed for every title.
Use headphones for all audio. Alaska asks passengers to be considerate of nearby travelers, and cabin crew instructions always take priority. On some seatback-equipped flights, complimentary earbuds may be provided, but bringing your own pair gives you a reliable fit.
If you need a specific accessibility feature, contact Alaska before travel and ask the crew once onboard. The available features can differ by aircraft, title, and system.
What to Prepare Before Your Flight
A few simple steps can prevent most inflight entertainment problems:
- Charge your phone, tablet, or laptop before boarding.
- Pack wired or Bluetooth headphones that work with your device.
- Update your browser and operating system before leaving home.
- Save your streaming passwords if you plan to use your own subscriptions.
- Download one or two backup movies or episodes for offline viewing.
- Carry a charging cable that matches your device.
- Keep power banks and spare lithium batteries in your carry-on bag, not checked baggage.
Warning: Follow all crew instructions about device use and stowage. Use Airplane Mode with the cellular connection disabled. If a device or battery becomes hot, swells, smokes, or burns, notify a flight attendant immediately.
Troubleshooting Alaska Airlines Inflight Entertainment
The Portal Does Not Open
- Confirm that Airplane Mode is on and Wi-Fi is turned back on.
- Make sure you joined the aircraft’s Alaska Wi-Fi network, not a saved airport network.
- Open a normal browser tab and type AlaskaWiFi.com manually.
- Temporarily turn off a VPN, private browsing mode, or privacy relay if it blocks the portal.
- Forget the Wi-Fi network, reconnect, and try again.
- Use the portal’s help option or ask a flight attendant when it is safe to do so.
A Movie Will Not Play
Try another title first. If only one movie fails, the problem may be limited to that file. If all titles fail, close the browser, reconnect to the onboard network, and reopen the portal. Keep the browser in the foreground while the video starts.
The Video Keeps Pausing
Pause for a minute and let the stream recover. Close other browser tabs and apps that use Wi-Fi. If you are streaming from your own subscription, speed may change with network demand, weather, aircraft movement, or coverage.
No Entertainment Option Appears
Your aircraft or current system may not offer the same local library as another Alaska flight. Check the seat pocket information, portal menu, and flight details. Use downloaded backup content when the onboard catalog is unavailable.
Pro Tip: Take a screenshot of your flight number and aircraft type before boarding. It can help you understand whether to expect a seatback screen, personal-device streaming, or a newer internet setup.
Which Movies Fit Your Flight Length?
Choose content that fits the time you will actually have after boarding, safety announcements, taxi, and descent. A movie that matches the scheduled flight time may still be too long.
| Flight Length | Good Choice | Planning Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Under 90 minutes | One or two TV episodes, a short documentary, or downloaded content | Allow time for connection and descent |
| 90 minutes to 3 hours | A standard-length movie | Start soon after the system becomes available |
| 3 to 6 hours | A long movie or several episodes | Bring charging options and take screen breaks |
| Long-haul international | Multiple movies, a series, or a mix of content | Balance entertainment with rest and cabin lighting |
Tips for a Better Viewing Experience
Check Your Flight Details
Review the aircraft type and listed amenities in your reservation or flight status before departure. This gives you a reasonable idea of what to expect, though last-minute aircraft swaps are possible.
Choose a Comfortable Setup
Use the seatback device holder when one is available, lower your screen brightness, and keep the volume at a safe level. Do not place a loose laptop or tablet where it could fall during turbulence.
Start Early, but Listen to the Crew
Connect when the airline allows device use, but pause for safety announcements. Keep your seat belt fastened while seated and follow requests to stow larger devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
What movies are currently playing on Alaska Airlines?
The exact titles rotate and can vary by flight. Alaska advertises more than 1,000 movies and TV episodes, but the onboard portal at AlaskaWiFi.com or the seatback screen is the most reliable place to see the catalog available on your aircraft.
Are Alaska Airlines movies free?
Yes. Alaska describes its onboard movie and TV library as free where offered. Paid internet is a separate service.
Do I need to buy Wi-Fi to watch the free movies?
Normally, no. Connect to the onboard Wi-Fi network and open AlaskaWiFi.com, then choose the free entertainment option. Buying internet is only necessary for services outside the included library when required by the aircraft’s current Wi-Fi setup.
Does every Alaska Airlines plane have seatback screens?
No. Alaska highlights seatback entertainment on the 787 Dreamliner, and its current cabin pages also describe screens on A330 flights. Many 737 and E175 flights use personal-device entertainment or internet-based streaming instead.
Can I watch Alaska Airlines movies on my phone or tablet?
Yes, on supported aircraft. Put the device in Airplane Mode, connect to the onboard Alaska Wi-Fi network, open AlaskaWiFi.com in a browser, and select entertainment.
Do I need an entertainment app?
Alaska’s current instructions direct passengers to a browser-based portal at AlaskaWiFi.com. Keep your browser updated and use a normal, non-private tab if the portal has trouble loading.
Are closed captions available?
Closed captions are available on many titles when a captioned airline version is supplied. Look for a CC icon, but do not assume every title includes captions.
Can I stream Netflix or another service?
You may be able to stream your own subscriptions on flights with suitable internet, including Starlink-equipped aircraft. Bring your login information and check the current Wi-Fi access rules for your flight.
Why will AlaskaWiFi.com not open?
Make sure Airplane Mode is on, Wi-Fi is enabled, and you joined the aircraft network. Type AlaskaWiFi.com manually, use a normal browser tab, and temporarily disable a VPN or privacy feature that may block the sign-in page.
Does Alaska Airlines have family-friendly entertainment?
The rotating library commonly includes family and children’s content, but the exact choices vary. Check ratings and descriptions in the onboard catalog and download a backup title for children who expect a specific show.
Conclusion
Alaska Airlines offers a large, free inflight entertainment library, but the exact movie list depends on the date, aircraft, and onboard system. Check your flight details, bring a charged device and headphones, then open AlaskaWiFi.com or use the seatback screen. A downloaded backup gives you something to watch if the catalog or connection is unavailable.
Sources
- Alaska Airlines Inflight Entertainment – current library size, seatback entertainment, personal-device streaming, headphones, charging, and moving map details.
- Alaska Airlines Flight Experiences – aircraft and cabin differences for seatback and personal-device entertainment.
- Alaska Airlines Inflight Wi-Fi – current Wi-Fi options, connection steps, Starlink rollout, pricing, and coverage notes.
- Alaska Airlines Entertainment Access Guide – browser access, free entertainment, captions, and portal troubleshooting.
- Federal Aviation Administration: Flying Safe – Airplane Mode, Wi-Fi use, and compliance with crew instructions.
- Federal Aviation Administration: Airline Passengers and Batteries – carry-on rules and safety guidance for devices, spare batteries, and power banks.