Ever since WiFi access has been introduced onto airplanes, it has usually meant having to pay for access. This was especially true when this was a new feature and was considered to be a luxury. However, as time has gone on, internet access has shifted from being an extra to a necessity, especially while traveling. That’s why this news from Delta is quite exciting.
There Will Soon Be Free Internet Access On Delta Flights
The company has announced that starting from February 1st, 2023, there will be free WiFi available on 80% of its domestic flights, which will be sponsored by T-Mobile. By the end of 2024, it will reach 700 planes, both regional and international. While at CES 2023, the company’s CEP Ed Bastian said: “It’s going to be free. It’s going to be fast. And it’s going to be available to everyone.”
In order to to gain access to the free internet connection, travelers will have to log into a Delta SkyMiles account, but not to worry – as this is free to do. Previously, there was a $5 flat fee in order to get Wifi access.
The Free WiFi Access Will Be Sponsored By T Mobile
Delta has been working on the internet system since 2018 in order to make sure access will be fast enough to accommodate hundreds of flyers at the same time, which was the main reason why so many airlines were slow to introduce free internet throughout the past few years.
Bastian continued: “We didn’t just want free Wi-Fi to offer base-level service – we wanted it to be transformative for the entire onboard experience. It is imperative all customers onboard can enjoy their favorite content just as they would at home, and we’ve put this system through meticulous tests to make that possible.”
The only other airline that offers free WiFi as of now it JetBlue, while other domestic airlines like United, American, and Southwest charge a fee of anywhere between $8 to $10. However, American has been testing out free WiFi as well.
Delta will also be introducing a new in-flight entertainment system, which will enable travelers to save preferences from one flight to another, for example saving your spot in a movie if you were in the middle.
By 2024, 700 Aircrafts Will Include The Free WiFi Access
