Delta Air Lines to Install Amazon Leo Satellite Internet on 500 Planes

This article is based on an official press release from Delta Air Lines.

Delta Air Lines and Amazon have announced a major agreement to bring Amazon Leo’s low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite internet to the airline’s global fleet. According to an official press release from Delta, the carrier plans to install the high-speed, low-latency Wi-Fi system on 500 Commercial-Aircraft starting in 2028.

The collaboration marks a significant expansion of Delta’s ongoing push to modernize in-flight connectivity and digital experiences for its passengers. By integrating Amazon Leo’s advanced satellite network, Delta aims to provide streaming-quality internet that allows travelers to seamlessly share media, stream entertainment, and conduct business at 35,000 feet.

This new agreement builds upon an existing relationship between Delta and Amazon Web Services (AWS), deepening the technological integration between the two global corporate giants. The move underscores Delta’s commitment to offering fast, reliable, and free Wi-Fi to its SkyMiles members across its entire network.

Next-Generation Connectivity with Amazon Leo

Amazon Leo is designed to deliver high-speed internet globally through a constellation of thousands of satellites in low Earth orbit. For its aviation application, the system will utilize the Leo Ultra antenna, which the press release describes as the fastest commercial phased array antenna currently in production. This technology connects directly to global terrestrial infrastructure powered by AWS, ensuring robust and consistent coverage.

The unmatched upload capacity of the Amazon Leo network is expected to transform how passengers interact online while flying. Travelers will be able to instantly upload photos and videos, securely send large business files, and stream content without the traditional lag associated with legacy in-flight Wi-Fi systems.

A Multi-Provider Strategy

While Amazon Leo represents a major leap forward, Delta is maintaining a diversified approach to its connectivity infrastructure. The Airlines noted in its release that it will continue to work alongside existing partners Viasat and Hughes. This multi-provider strategy ensures that Delta can equip different aircraft types with the most appropriate technology to serve its global route network effectively.

Deepening the Delta and Amazon Partnership

The introduction of Amazon Leo is the latest milestone in a long-standing technological Partnerships between Delta and Amazon. Since 2020, Delta has utilized AWS as its preferred cloud provider, successfully migrating nearly 600 applications to the cloud. This backend modernization has accelerated the airline’s ability to deploy new technologies and improve operational efficiency.

Both companies see the expanded collaboration as a way to redefine the travel experience. The integration of AWS, Amazon Leo, and other AI technologies is expected to enhance customer touchpoints throughout the entire travel journey, from booking to baggage claim.

“This agreement gives us the fastest and most cost-effective technology available to better connect the world today, and it deepens our work with a global leader that shares our ambition to build what’s next,” said Ed Bastian, Delta’s chief executive officer, in the company’s press release.

“People increasingly want to stay connected wherever they are in the world, and Leo’s speed and reliability is going to have a big impact for businesses, governments, and consumers. It’s going to make the in-flight experience so much better, and it’s going to change what’s possible while traveling,” stated Andy Jassy, President and CEO of Amazon.

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The Race for In-Flight LEO Dominance

We view Delta’s decision to partner with Amazon Leo as a clear indicator of the intensifying competition in the in-flight connectivity market, particularly concerning low Earth orbit satellite networks. While competitors have gained early traction with several global carriers, Amazon is leveraging its massive AWS infrastructure and existing corporate relationships to secure a formidable foothold in the commercial aviation sector.

Scaling Free Wi-Fi

As we track the industry’s push toward free in-flight Wi-Fi, Delta remains at the forefront. Since introducing the service for SkyMiles members in 2023, the airline has scaled streaming-quality connectivity to more than 1,150 aircraft, with transpacific routes scheduled to come online in the fall of 2026. With over 163 million SkyMiles members having connected to Delta Sync Wi-Fi to date, we anticipate the addition of Amazon Leo in 2028 will provide the necessary bandwidth to support growing passenger demand and maintain Delta’s competitive edge in customer experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will Delta install Amazon Leo on its planes?

Delta plans to begin the initial installation of Amazon Leo on 500 aircraft starting in 2028.

Will Delta still use other Wi-Fi providers?

Yes. Delta has confirmed it will continue its existing Contracts with Viasat and Hughes, utilizing a multi-provider strategy to equip its global fleet.

Is Delta’s Wi-Fi free?

Delta currently offers fast, free Wi-Fi to its SkyMiles members, a program that was first introduced in 2023 and is sponsored by T-Mobile.

Sources

• Delta Air Lines