Amazon Secures Delta Deal for 1 Gbps In-Flight Wi-Fi on 500 Jets by 2028
Amazon has partnered with Delta to offer high-speed internet at up to 1 Gbps across Delta's 500-plane fleet starting in 2028, using its low Earth orbit Project Leo satellites. This agreement comes as Amazon plans to expand its 200-in-orbit satellite constellation and accelerate launches to compete with SpaceX's Starlink.
1. Partnership Agreement Details
Amazon and Delta have entered a strategic partnership under which Amazon will equip Delta’s 500-aircraft fleet with Project Leo antennas, delivering download speeds up to 1 Gbps beginning in 2028. Installation and certification processes will be coordinated over the next two years to meet the launch timetable.
2. Satellite Constellation Expansion Plans
Amazon currently operates more than 200 low Earth orbit satellites for Project Leo and has filed plans to launch several hundred more over the next five years. The expanded constellation aims to ensure continuous coverage at cruising altitudes and reduce potential service blackouts during peak usage.
3. Competitive Landscape
The Delta agreement intensifies competition with SpaceX’s Starlink, which already services multiple airlines with a constellation exceeding 4,000 satellites. Amazon will need to scale its launches and ground infrastructure rapidly to close the gap and win additional airline contracts.
4. Revenue Model and Implications
Amazon projects subscription revenues from both airlines and individual passengers, offering free Wi-Fi access to Delta SkyMiles members while charging non-members. Success could diversify Amazon’s revenue beyond e-commerce and cloud services, while strengthening its position in the burgeoning satellite internet market.