If you’re looking for an upgraded flight experience we’ve got some news for you!
©Delta
In the past, we’ve shared a look at some upgraded features coming to United Airlines planes, changes in first class on American Airlines, and even upgraded boarding for Southwest. But more airline changes are on the way — this time, with Delta Airlines.
Back in early 2023, we shared how Delta would be introducing FREE Wi-Fi on most planes for members of Delta’s free SkyMiles loyalty program. That was set to launch on Delta’s most popular routes and over 500 planes in February of 2023. Plus, wide-body planes and jets would be expected to get the same service by the end of 2024.
©Delta
Now we’ve got some more updates about how Delta is upgrading its fleet. According to CNBC, Delta has actually spent more than $1 BILLION in upgrading its planes. Delta utilizes a provider called Viasat to deliver the Wi-Fi.
What’s so special about Viasat is that they recently “launched a new satellite with faster speeds and more capacity.” Viasat indicates that this new satellite should help them keep up with the growing demand for Wi-Fi from the airline industry.
©Delta
In a CNBC video, they discussed why good Wi-Fi can be hard to get on planes. Typically, prices, speeds, and reliability can vary between the various airlines and various flights.
There are a few different things that factor into this whole situation and why Wi-Fi on planes can be complicated including an increased demand for the service (having gone from just a few business professionals sending emails to an entire plane of folks wanting to watch movies), an expectation by guests that Wi-Fi will just be available everywhere, and coordinating satellite connections to a moving plane. But technology has gotten better, which can improve the whole situation.
©CNBC
Because of the changes in technology to keep up with demands, it means some older planes need significant upgrades, while newer planes may come with the technology already installed into them (making things easier).
And while some airlines — like Delta — are offering Wi-Fi for free, others may not offer Wi-Fi at all, so that’s an important thing to consider when deciding what airline to fly with.
©CNBC
One Delta spokesperson in the CNBC video shared that they started working on this back in 2019 with a team of industry experts to test satellite networks. They’ve done that progressively up to the point of offering free Wi-Fi.
CNBC got an inside look at what it takes to upgrade an aircraft for the latest Wi-Fi needs and it’s QUITE the project to run the wires and other equipment required.
©CNBC
Delta will actually be upgrading over 1,200 planes by the time 2024 rolls around, and they’re about halfway there.
But Delta’s not alone — JetBlue has offered free Wi-Fi for years. CNBC points out that some airlines have moved away from approaching Wi-Fi as a way to charge guests and make money. Instead, they see it now as a way to increase customer loyalty. Happy passengers could buy another ticket with the same airline next time — making more money in the long run.
©CNBC
So where’s the future headed? The Wi-Fi experience still varies. CNBC notes that Delta’s investment in its Wi-Fi could ramp up its competition with rival airlines. That could push things to get even better.
There could be a ways to go, but with more satellites in orbit and improvements in technology, it seems the entire system is getting better at handling the tremendous amount of demand being put on it.
You can watch the full CNBC video about these changes regarding Wi-Fi on planes below.
If you’ll be going on a Delta flight in the future, be on the lookout for their Wi-Fi and join their SkyMiles membership program first so you can access it. There should be a decal noting that your plane has free Wi-Fi near the boarding door (if it indeed has that service) or you can ask a Flight Attendant if you have any questions.
We’ll keep an eye out for more travel news and let you know what we find. Stay tuned for the latest updates!
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Do you like to use the Wi-Fi on planes? What airline has the best Wi-Fi in your opinion? Tell us in the comments.
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SERIOUSLY?
DELTAS PLANES ARE THE OLDEST IN THE INDUSTRY.
ITS LIKE PUTTING LIPSTICK ON A PIG!
Nice. But, it would be better if they upgraded customer service and especially compensation
JetBlue gives free wifi to ALL of its passengers, and has for years.
Delta Airlines cost me to lose $1800 on a trip and would not refund me 1 penny. I will never book this airline again.