In-Flight Texting Allowed on Delta Flights Starting Next Week

By THC Staff | September 29, 2017

 

“We want our customers when they’re flying to stay connected,” CNN quotes Delta CEO Ed Bastian concerning the airline’s new offering of free in-flight texting. Though calls will still be prohibited, passengers onboard of Delta planes will be able to use Gogo, the airline’s in-flight internet provider, to connect to a cellular network.

“Travelers will be able to access the feature through Delta’s Wi-Fi portal page, airborne.gogoinflight.com,” Click2Houston.com explains. For no cost, passengers can send texts through messaging services like Facebook Messenger, iMessage, and WhatsApp. (But they will not be able to send video or photos.) If travelers want to access websites, they’ll need to purchase Wi-Fi access. The Gogo service will only become available on planes with two or more cabins, meaning smaller jets won’t have the texting capabilities.

CNN says, “The effort is part of Delta’s multi-billion dollar investment in the ‘customer experience.’ Airlines are looking to lure customers by providing perks like free messaging.” When asked about in-flight calls, CEO Ed Bastian said he doesn’t anticipate that happening in his lifetime. But the new texting capabilities will please many passengers who want to stay in touch while in the air, and it will definitely help to pass the time.