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Delta Air Lines and Amazon have announced a long-term partnership aimed at transforming the future of air travel through advanced connectivity and digital innovation.
At the centre of the collaboration is Amazon’s low Earth orbit satellite network, Amazon Leo, which will power high-speed, low-latency internet across Delta’s fleet.
The airline plans to begin installing the technology on 500 aircraft from 2028, which will mark a major step toward delivering seamless, real-time digital experiences onboard both domestic and international flights.
The initiative is expected to significantly enhance in-flight connectivity, enabling passengers to stream movies and television shows, listen to podcasts and audiobooks, and stay connected to work and personal networks without interruption.
The improved upload capacity will also allow travellers to share photos, videos and business files instantly, which will eliminate the need to wait until landing.
Chief Executive Officer of Delta, Ed Bastian, described the agreement as a strategic move to strengthen global connectivity and improve customer experience.
“Delta’s future is global. This partnership gives us fast, cost-effective technology to better connect people and deepen our work with a global leader that shares our ambition to build what’s next,” he said.
The collaboration builds on Delta’s existing relationship with Amazon Web Services (AWS), its preferred cloud provider.
Since 2020, nearly 600 of Delta’s applications have been migrated to AWS, which enabled the airline to accelerate digital transformation and improve operational efficiency.
Under the expanded partnership, both companies plan to integrate AWS, artificial intelligence and other Amazon technologies to enhance the travel journey from booking and airport processes to the onboard experience.
President and CEO of Amazon, Andy Jassy, said the collaboration demonstrates the scale and impact of the company’s satellite technology.
“People increasingly want to stay connected wherever they are. Leo’s speed and reliability will transform the in-flight experience and expand what is possible while travelling,” he noted.
Delta’s move builds on its track record of innovation in onboard connectivity. The airline introduced fast, free Wi-Fi for SkyMiles members in 2023 and has since expanded the service to more than 1,150 aircraft, reaching most of its global network.
The airline is also working with other connectivity providers, including Viasat and Hughes Network Systems, to ensure consistent, high-speed internet across different routes and aircraft types.
Beyond connectivity, the partnership underscores a broader strategy to integrate technology, entertainment and customer engagement.
Delta has strengthened alliances with global brands such as American Express, T-Mobile, YouTube, Starbucks and Uber to enhance passenger experience.
A Business Desk Report
