United Airlines ends Hemispheres inflight magazine after 32 years

Hemispheres was particularly known for its "Three Perfect Days" itinerary features for destinations served by United. Since 2009, the magazine was published by Ink.

United Airlines commented on the transition: "A digital experience allows us to make Hemispheres even better — we can reach a wider audience, offer more personalized content and tell richer stories. We’ve even hired additional United staff to help us bring this new vision to life. We’re excited about the future possibilities and look forward to sharing more details soon."

The shift towards digital reflects broader trends in inflight entertainment and advertising. As seen with SkyMall's decline, the rise of inflight internet and personal entertainment devices has reduced the captive audience for traditional print media. Additionally, costs associated with printing and fuel due to added weight have contributed to this strategic change.

United aims to develop a new media network focused on targeted digital ads despite current challenges with inconsistent inflight Wi-Fi performance and an underdeveloped ad platform managed by an ex-Comcast executive.