SpaceX and Delta Airlines Join Forces to Accelerate In-Flight Wireless Internet Business

by Jeong Hyunjin

Published 19 Apr.2022 14:37(KST)

[Image source=AP Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Hyunjin Jeong] SpaceX, the US space exploration company led by Elon Musk, is reportedly planning to start in-flight wireless internet (Wi-Fi) service business beginning with Delta Air Lines, according to the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) on the 18th (local time).

According to the report, Ed Bastian, CEO of Delta Air Lines, recently stated in an interview that he had discussions with the team in charge of Starlink, SpaceX's satellite internet service, and conducted tests on the technology. Although specific details were not disclosed, it was confirmed that collaboration for in-flight wireless internet usage is underway.

CEO Bastian has previously criticized existing in-flight internet services, saying they should be much faster and free of charge. Given Delta Air Lines' interest, demonstrated by offering free internet trials even before the COVID-19 pandemic, it is interpreted that they decided to collaborate with SpaceX, which has been pushing for Starlink service certification on certain aircraft models such as the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320, to introduce in-flight wireless internet.

Analysts note that although current in-flight wireless internet speeds are too slow and cause dissatisfaction, demand is expected to continue increasing. According to consulting firm Euroconsult, the number of aircraft equipped with in-flight wireless internet is projected to reach 20,000 by 2030, more than double the current number.

The WSJ reported that satellite communication companies like Intelsat and Viasat currently operate in-flight internet businesses, and Delta Air Lines also provides satellite internet services on major aircraft, with Viasat's wireless internet installed on over 300 aircraft as of last month. Over the past several years, SpaceX has launched low Earth orbit satellites to build a high-speed space internet network covering the entire globe. SpaceX projects that its subscriber base will reach 40 million by 2025.