Delta Air Lines is exploring the possibility of using Starlink, the SpaceX broadband technology, to offer internet connectivity onboard flights. The carrier has already conducted tests and held talks with the California-based company, which is headed by entrepreneur Elon Musk.
Delta could offer Starlink connectivity
Getting good WiFi onboard flights has always been a source of frustration for both passengers and airlines. This could change for Delta Air Lines after the carrier expressed its interest in SpaceX’s Starlink satellite internet technology.
According to Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian, the airline has already conducted exploratory testing and talks with Elon Musk’s company without going into any specifics.
Starlink provides internet connectivity through satellite technology. Photo: SpaceX
Last June, Jonathan Hofeller, SpaceX’s vice president of Starlink and Commercial Sales, claimed that the company was “in talks with several” airlines.
Hofeller said,
“We have our own aviation product in development … we’ve already done some demonstrations to date and [are] looking to get that product finalized to be put on aircraft in the very near future.”
Delta’s current onboard internet connectivity is provided by Viasat, a satellite internet company that also offers connectivity onboard United and American flights.
SpaceX has developed a special aviation antenna that is undergoing testing, with the company working on gaining certification with “various aircraft.”
Streaming services for every passenger
During a panel at the Satellite 2022 conference in March, SpaceX’s Jonathan Hofeller revealed the company’s goal of offering high-bandwidth WiFi connectivity to every passenger.
Hofeller said,
“Connectivity on airplanes is something we think is ripe for an overhaul. The expectation has changed faster than the technology has changed. We’re designing a service where every single…