Delta Air Lines Inc. will begin offering Wi-Fi Internet service on international flights beginning next year, the carrier announced June 28.
New high-band satellite technology will allow the company to expand the service to its international fleet of 150 planes, including its Boeing 777, 767, 747, Airbus 330 and transoceanic Boeing 757 aircraft, the company said.
Delta already operates Wi-Fi service on domestic flights through the private broadband carrier Gogo Inflight Internet, although its international service has been limited due to technological constraints.
However, surveys by the company have noted that customers are eager to stay connected on long-haul international flights and Delta has responded accordingly, said Tim Mapes, Delta’s senior vice president of marketing, in a news release.
“Delta’s advancements in technology have been a key component to our improvements in the customer travel experience and have been cited by J.D. Power and Associates and PCWorld magazine as important aspects of travel,” Mr. Mapes said. “With our expansion of international Wi-Fi options across our fleet, Delta customers will be able to stay connected throughout their journey.”
The expansion is part of a plan to invest $3 billion in products, services and airport facilities through 2013.
Through its affiliates and daily flights, Delta offers service to nearly 350 destinations in 65 countries.