Amazon and Delta Air Lines have joined forces to dramatically enhance the in-flight internet experience for Delta passengers. The companies revealed on Tuesday that Amazon Leo, Amazon’s satellite internet service, will be deployed across Delta’s fleet beginning in 2028.

A Leap Forward in Connectivity Speed and Cost

Executive Insights on the Partnership

Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian stated in an interview that the new service will be "multiple times faster than anything we have today" and offered at a "very cost-effective rate." Bastian highlighted that the collaboration extends beyond just Wi-Fi, suggesting combined enterprise efforts will revolutionize the onboard customer experience.

Amazon CEO Andy Jassy echoed this enthusiasm, calling the forthcoming system a "game-changing" experience. Bastian further clarified that speeds will be "substantially less" in terms of cost and deliver "2, 3, 4 times what they're used to on Delta today."

Amazon Leo Technology

Amazon Leo utilizes low-earth orbit satellites to deliver high-speed internet, particularly beneficial for reaching rural and remote areas. Jassy confirmed Amazon’s commitment to this technology, stating, "We're gonna invest whatever's required to build an amazing low earth orbit satellite constellation that has incredible performance at low cost."

Maintaining Industry Leadership

Delta's Current Wi-Fi Status

Bastian emphasized Delta's existing leadership in providing free, fast Wi-Fi globally, noting that approximately 1,200 planes, nearly the entire fleet, are already equipped. He stressed the necessity to remain at the forefront as technology rapidly advances.

Delta currently offers complimentary Wi-Fi to customers enrolled in its free SkyMiles loyalty program. Non-members must purchase an access pass to utilize the service.

Deepening Existing Relationship

The partnership was facilitated by the strong existing relationship between the two corporations. Bastian expressed "supreme confidence" in Delta’s ties with Amazon, referencing current operations where Delta transports Amazon employees globally.

Furthermore, Delta already incorporates Amazon technology, including services from Amazon Web Services (AWS). Bastian explained that conversations naturally progressed after his team and Jassy’s teams, who have known each other for some time, explored potential joint ventures a few months prior.

Competition and Future Offerings

Competing with Starlink

Delta’s new offering will directly compete with satellite services like Elon Musk’s Starlink, which is currently used by airlines such as Alaska and United. Bastian anticipates that the speeds provided by Amazon Leo will be highly competitive against Starlink, while the operational cost will be "substantially less than what we're paying today."

Future Passenger Experience Enhancements

Regarding future features, Bastian mentioned that in-flight video calling is planned, though with initial restrictions. Passengers will be able to join video conferences but the audio component will not be enabled initially. He added that Delta and Amazon are collaborating on various business tools leveraging AI capabilities.

Jassy concluded by confirming that installation of Amazon Leo begins in 2028, and both companies are actively exploring additional ways to leverage their combined strengths to create an "incredible experience for Delta customers."