Delta is under growing pressure as its public dispute with Elon Musk over in-flight Wi-Fi escalates. Musk has criticized CEO Ed Bastian’s decision to choose Amazon’s satellite internet service over Starlink and predicted the move will hurt the airline.
United Airlines and American Airlines are reportedly launching campaigns to attract Delta’s high-value premium customers by promoting their Starlink connectivity. Premium and loyalty revenues have been significant growth drivers for Delta.
Delta’s new Wi-Fi service is not expected on aircraft until 2028, giving rivals a multi-year window to exploit the gap.