In flight connectivity. Photo: Viasat

Delta Air Lines plans to bring Viasat’s In-Flight Connectivity (IFC) solution aboard 300 aircraft, the companies announced Tuesday. Viasat’s Ka-band IFC system will be rolled out on narrow-body aircraft starting in the summer of 2021, with new delivery A321ceo1, 737-900ER and select 757-200 aircraft. Financial details of the deal were not disclosed. 

Delta said this service will offer customers the ability to stream all types of Over-the-Top (OTT) content to any device with internet from gate to gate. This partnership is part of Delta’s plan to offer free Wi-Fi in the future. The airline plans to work with multiple Wi-Fi suppliers, including both Gogo and Viasat.

Glenn Latta, Delta managing director of In-Flight Entertainment & Wi-Fi said in a Delta Q&A that the installation process — from approvals to testing to implementation — often takes several months. 

“Viasat’s high-speed satellite-powered technology changes the game for what we can offer,” Latta commented in the Q&A. “We now have additional capability and next-gen technology to make sure you have a faster and more consistent connection to your favorite sites, including the ability to stream the entertainment of your choice on your flight. It also lays the groundwork for future enhancements and personalization with the seatback screen that customers will love.”