In today’s digital age, staying connected is no longer a luxury, but a necessity. Whether you’re a business traveler, a social media enthusiast, or just someone who likes to stay informed, having access to WiFi is essential. But what about when you’re flying high in the skies? Do airlines, like Delta, offer WiFi on their flights? In this article, we’ll explore the answer to this question and dive deeper into the world of in-flight WiFi.
Delta’s WiFi Policy: A Brief History
In 2015, Delta Air Lines began offering WiFi on select flights, becoming one of the first major carriers to do so. At the time, the service was provided by Gogo, a leading in-flight internet provider. Initially, the service was only available on domestic flights, but it wasn’t long before Delta expanded its WiFi offerings to international flights as well.
Over the years, Delta has continuously improved its WiFi service, increasing speeds and expanding coverage. Today, Delta offers WiFi on most of its flights, with only a few exceptions.
Which Delta Flights Offer WiFi?
So, which Delta flights can you expect to have WiFi on? The answer is, most of them. Delta offers WiFi on:
- All Airbus A321, A330-200, A330-300, and A350-900 aircraft
- Most Boeing 717, 737-800, 737-900ER, 747-400, 757-200, and 767-300ER aircraft
However, there are some exceptions. WiFi is not available on:
- Delta Connection flights operated by smaller regional aircraft
- International flights operated by partner airlines
If you’re unsure whether your specific flight offers WiFi, you can always check with Delta’s website or mobile app.
How Fast is Delta’s WiFi?
One of the most important questions when it comes to in-flight WiFi is, how fast is it? After all, nobody wants to be stuck with slow internet speeds when you’re trying to get work done or stream your favorite TV show.
Delta’s WiFi speeds vary depending on the aircraft and the number of passengers using the service. However, on average, you can expect speeds of around 15-20 Mbps. This is fast enough to:
Check email, browse the web, and use social media
Stream music and standard-definition video
However, if you’re looking to stream high-definition video or engage in online gaming, you may find the speeds a bit slow.
How Much Does Delta’s WiFi Cost?
Now that we’ve established that Delta offers WiFi on most of its flights, the next question is, how much does it cost? The answer to this question depends on the type of WiFi plan you choose.
Delta offers two WiFi plans:
| Plan | Price | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Messenger | $4.95 | Access to messaging apps like WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and iMessage |
| Delta WiFi | $9.95-$14.95 | Full internet access, including streaming and downloading |
The price of the Delta WiFi plan varies depending on the length of your flight and your SkyMiles status.
Tips for Using Delta’s WiFi
Now that we’ve covered the basics of Delta’s WiFi, here are a few tips to help you make the most of your in-flight internet experience:
Choose the Right Plan
If you only need to check email or send messages, the Messenger plan may be the best option for you. However, if you need full internet access, opt for the Delta WiFi plan.
Connect ASAP
As soon as the plane reaches cruising altitude, connect to the WiFi network. This will give you the best chance of getting a fast and stable connection.
Be Patient
In-flight WiFi can be unpredictable, and speeds may vary. Be patient and don’t get frustrated if your connection is slow or drops out occasionally.
Additional Tips
- Keep your devices charged, as power outlets may be limited on the plane
- Avoid streaming high-definition video or engaging in online gaming, as this can slow down the network for everyone
Conclusion
In today’s connected world, having access to WiFi is no longer a luxury, but a necessity. Delta Air Lines understands this, which is why it offers WiFi on most of its flights. With fast speeds, affordable prices, and easy access, Delta’s WiFi is a game-changer for travelers.
Whether you’re a business traveler, a social media enthusiast, or just someone who likes to stay informed, Delta’s WiFi has got you covered. So next time you fly with Delta, sit back, relax, and stay connected at 30,000 feet.
Is WiFi available on all Delta flights?
Delta offers WiFi on most of its flights, but not all. The airline has equipped over 1,100 of its aircraft with Gogo WiFi, which provides internet access to passengers. However, some shorter flights and select international routes may not have WiFi available.
To find out if your specific flight has WiFi, you can check Delta’s website or mobile app. Simply enter your flight number or destination and departure dates, and you’ll see a notation indicating if WiFi is available. You can also ask a Delta representative at the airport or on the plane if you’re unsure.
How do I get WiFi on a Delta flight?
To get WiFi on a Delta flight, simply bring your WiFi-enabled device and follow these steps: enable WiFi on your device, select the “DeltaWiFi” network, launch your internet browser, and click “Get Online” to start your session. You’ll be prompted to sign in with your Delta SkyMiles account or pay for a WiFi pass.
Delta offers two WiFi pass options: a one-hour pass for $7.95 or a full-flight pass for $19.95 on domestic flights. On international flights, the full-flight pass costs $28.95. If you’re a T-Mobile customer, you may be eligible for free WiFi on your Delta flight. Check with T-Mobile for details on this offer.
How fast is the WiFi on Delta flights?
The WiFi on Delta flights is provided by Gogo, which uses a satellite-based system to deliver internet access. While it’s not as fast as the WiFi you’re used to on the ground, it’s still plenty fast for browsing the web, checking email, and streaming music. You can expect download speeds of around 10-15 Mbps, which is comparable to a 3G or 4G LTE connection.
However, keep in mind that the WiFi speed can vary depending on the number of passengers using it and other factors. You may experience slower speeds during peak usage times or when flying over areas with limited satellite coverage.
Can I stream video on Delta’s WiFi?
While it’s technically possible to stream video on Delta’s WiFi, it’s not recommended. The satellite-based system isn’t designed to handle high-bandwidth activities like video streaming, and you may experience buffering, lag, or poor video quality.
If you need to stream video, consider downloading your content before your flight or using an alternative method like a tablet or laptop with a built-in cellular connection. However, if you must stream video, be aware that it may consume a significant amount of your data allowance, which could impact your overall WiFi experience.
Is Delta’s WiFi secure?
Delta takes the security of its WiFi network seriously. The airline uses industry-standard encryption and secure browsing protocols to protect passenger data. When you connect to the “DeltaWiFi” network, your data will be transmitted securely via HTTPS.
However, as with any public WiFi network, it’s still important to take precautions to protect your personal data. Avoid accessing sensitive information or conducting financial transactions while connected to the WiFi network. Use a VPN (virtual private network) if you need to access sensitive information, and be cautious when clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources.
Can I use my VPN on Delta’s WiFi?
Yes, you can use your VPN (virtual private network) on Delta’s WiFi network. In fact, it’s a good idea to use a VPN to add an extra layer of security when accessing the internet over a public WiFi network. Most VPNs will work seamlessly with Delta’s WiFi, but you may need to configure your VPN settings to ensure a successful connection.
Keep in mind that using a VPN may impact your WiFi performance, as it can add latency to your connection. However, this is a small trade-off for the added security and peace of mind that comes with using a VPN.
Will I have access to power outlets on my Delta flight?
Yes, Delta has installed power outlets on many of its aircraft. You’ll typically find power outlets at each seat in Delta Comfort+ and First Class, as well as in certain rows in Main Cabin. However, the availability of power outlets may vary depending on the aircraft type and configuration.
If you need to keep your devices charged during your flight, consider packing a portable power bank or searching for power outlets at the airport before boarding. You can also check with Delta to see if your specific flight has power outlets available.