Delta has become the first of the big four to offer free WiFi onboard for its Delta SkyMiles members. The airline has progressively worked on its rollout and can now announce free access for its members. Eligible travelers can log in and connect seamlessly. However, those not signed up with the airline's frequent flyer program will only have to pay the $5 fee to get online.

In July, Delta revealed several updates about introducing free inflight WiFi. It plans to launch complimentary WiFi on international routes by the end of 2024, becoming the first to offer this on a large global scale from North America. Many major US airlines are working with Viasat to implement WiFi, with the company's approach being:

''Viasat is pushing the boundaries of in-flight Wi-Fi. With unrivaled speed and capacity today — Viasat helps passengers, pilots, and crew stay connected to make the most of their time. Viasat brings best-in-class in-flight Wi-Fi to full-service, regional, and low-cost carriers — with flexible business models to meet the unique needs of our aviation customers''

Regional connections may need to wait.

Unfortunately, regional jets won't be eligible for the service just yet. Delta was working with Gogo for its WiFi dream, but the airline transitioned in 2021 to Viasat. With the technology now installed on 300 of the airline's narrowbody jets. Currently, the Viasat antennas are installed on most of the airline's new and retrofitted Airbus A321s, Boeing 737-900ERs, and Boeing 757-200s. Delta commented on the latest advancement:

"We are currently in the process of testing Wi-Fi infrastructure with various offerings to select customers on select routes. Customers will be notified if they have this option on their flight. We want Wi-Fi to be exactly the same for you at 35,000 feet up as it is on the ground for our customers. And it’s complex to do, but we are actively testing it right now and it’s working''

Next up, American Airlines?

It is expected that American Airlines will soon join the free WiFi fold, as the airline has been installing Viasat in most of its narrowbody jets, which, if announced, would take the spotlight of Delta's latest announcement. Other airlines in the United States are also persevering with their WiFi plans. Alaska and United recently introduced an $8 fee for WiFi, with United also offering free WiFi to T-mobile customers and free inflight messaging. Spirit has completed its onboard WiFi rollout, and Southwest is upgrading its existing offering with a mix between Viasat and another provider Anuvu.

There is no date yet when Delta will make WiFi accessible for all travelers, but for the passenger to join a free loyalty club to avail of the WiFi shouldn't be too much of a deterrence. With all the spotlight on Delta, it's worth remembering that JetBlue has long been the leader in its connectivity, with the airline offering free gate-to-gate WiFi.

Sources: Onemileatatime, The Points Guy