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Delta is finally joining the faster satellite Wi-Fi craze with Amazon — but if you want in-flight satellite now, you’ll still want to book United

Delta Air Lines has announced a partnership with Amazon’s LEO satellite network to provide high-speed, low-latency in-flight Wi-Fi for passengers, with installations beginning on 500 aircraft in 2028.

Key Points

  • Delta will equip 500 aircraft with phased array antennas to access Amazon’s LEO satellite network.
  • The new service will support speeds of up to 1 Gbps down and 400 Mbps up for SkyMiles members.
  • Installations are scheduled to begin in 2028, trailing United Airlines’ current Starlink rollout, which concludes in 2027.
  • Amazon’s LEO network currently operates approximately 200 satellites, with over 20 additional launch missions planned for the coming year.
  • Delta will continue utilizing existing connectivity providers, including Viasat and Hughes, alongside the new Amazon infrastructure.

Why it Matters

This partnership intensifies the competitive landscape for in-flight connectivity as major airlines race to offer high-speed, gate-to-gate internet access. By integrating Amazon's satellite technology, Delta aims to improve the passenger experience, though the 2028 start date leaves a significant gap compared to rivals already deploying similar services.
TechRadar Published by jacob.krol@futurenet.com (Jacob Krol) , Jacob Krol
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