# Delta Passes on Starlink for Amazon Leo Inflight Wi-Fi: Strategic Blunder?

_May 13 14:07_

Tags: Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, Amazon Leo, Delta Sync, Starlink, loyalty program, policy change, airline, program change

Delta chose Amazon's Leo network over Starlink for inflight Wi-Fi, citing branding control. United is rolling out Starlink to its entire fleet by end of 2027, potentially giving it a multi-year connectivity advantage

## Summary

Delta Air Lines has selected Amazon's Leo satellite network over SpaceX's Starlink for its next-generation inflight Wi-Fi, a decision driven by Delta's desire to keep connectivity behind its branded "Delta Sync" portal rather than adhering to Starlink's branding requirements. While Delta announced the deal with Amazon several weeks ago, the technology is not expected to launch until 2028, with initial installation on only 500 aircraft (roughly half the fleet). In contrast, United Airlines is actively rolling out Starlink Wi-Fi across its entire fleet, with completion expected by the end of 2027. This timeline creates a significant competitive disadvantage for Delta. United will have the fastest available inflight connectivity on all planes before Delta begins installing its new system. The article argues this is a strategic blunder, as consumer expectations for high-speed, free Wi-Fi are evolving rapidly, and Delta's current Viasat-based offering may become uncompetitive relative to United's Starlink network within 18 months

## Why it matters

Affects 2 airline programs (Delta Air Lines, United Airlines).

## Sources cited

- [One Mile at a Time](https://onemileatatime.com/news/silly-reason-delta-passed-starlink-strategic-blunder) — The Silly Reason Delta Passed On Starlink Wi-Fi: A Strategic Blunder?

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