Delta Celebrates 100 Years with Future Tech

Delta Air Lines is marking its 100th anniversary in spectacular fashion as it unveils a host of technology-driven innovations to redefine the future of air travel. At the CES 2025 technology conference in Las Vegas, held January 7, Delta took over the iconic SPHERE arena to showcase its rich history alongside a sneak peek of transformative enhancements that promise to elevate the travel experience over the next century.

During a keynote presentation, Delta CEO Ed Bastian highlighted the infusion of cutting-edge technology—such as artificial intelligence (AI), a digital revolution, and sustainable innovations—into the airline’s services. “New marvels like AI, the digital revolution, and sustainable technology are giving us incredible tools to transform the travel experience,” Bastian stated, emphasizing the company’s commitment to harnessing technology to better serve its customers.

Among the exciting near-term updates is the refreshed “Delta Sync” seat-back screen. The new screen will feature enhanced Bluetooth wireless connectivity, allowing passengers to seamlessly integrate their personal devices with in-flight entertainment. In addition, Delta is set to launch an in-app AI chatbot called “Delta Concierge.” This digital assistant will offer helpful services such as passport renewal and visa reminders, weather-appropriate packing suggestions, and assistance with navigating airport security and terminals. Delta Concierge reflects the airline’s goal to supplement its human customer service with innovative technology rather than replace it.

Another significant improvement comes in the form of Delta’s upgraded in-flight entertainment system, which is slated to go fully cloud-based starting in 2026. The new system will boast 4K QLED displays that provide a brilliant viewing experience even under direct sunlight behind open window shades. New features on these screens will include a “Do Not Disturb” function and the ability to translate in-flight announcements into passengers’ preferred languages. With 165,000 screens currently operating across Delta’s fleet, this upgrade is part of an ambitious plan to bring every flight into the next generation of digital entertainment.

In a strategic partnership with Uber announced during the event, Delta revealed that Uber will replace Lyft as its official rideshare partner starting this spring. According to Bastian, 15 percent of all Uber ride bookings either begin or end at an airport, making this partnership pivotal. Through the new arrangement, SkyMiles members will earn rewards: one mile per dollar on UberX rides, two miles for premium rides, and three miles for Uber Reserve rides. UberEats orders will also earn one mile per dollar spent. This seamless integration exemplifies Delta’s vision of a connected, multi-modal travel experience, where every leg of a customer’s itinerary—from airport transfers to in-flight services—is enhanced through strategic partnerships.

Looking to the future, Bastian also spotlighted Delta’s deepening integration with Airbus. As Delta currently operates nearly 500 Airbus aircraft with 200 more on order, the company and the European planemaker will explore innovations in wing performance, fuel efficiency, and superconductivity. These advancements could inform the design of future aircraft, marrying sustainable technology with cost-effectiveness.

Delta’s collaboration with electric air-taxi company Joby was another highlight of the keynote. Pending regulatory approvals, Delta plans to integrate Joby’s operations at its New York (LGA and JFK) and Los Angeles (LAX) hubs, further cementing its commitment to next-generation travel solutions.

While many of these exciting innovations are set to roll out over the coming years, Delta’s CES 2025 keynote provided a bold glimpse into an aviation future that embraces technology, sustainability, and deep partner integration. As Delta celebrates 100 years of service, its tech-forward approach promises not only to enhance customer experiences but also to redefine what it means to fly in the 21st century and beyond.

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