DraftKings Partners with Delta to Bring Gaming to In-Flight Entertainment
DraftKings and Delta Air Lines have officially confirmed their partnership, bringing interactive gaming experiences to passengers during flights. The collaboration was first announced during the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in January, and on February 3, the airline confirmed the deal.
What the Partnership Brings to Passengers
Delta’s partnership with DraftKings will allow SkyMiles members to access interactive games, challenges, and sports-themed contests via their personal devices. These games, however, will not involve real-money betting or wagering SkyMiles.
Instead, the platform will focus on skill-based gaming and sports simulations, ensuring compliance with federal regulations that currently prohibit gambling on airplanes.
Passengers can access these free-to-play games through Delta Sync Wi-Fi, which is already available on most of the airline’s fleet. Delta has been aggressively expanding its in-flight connectivity, and this collaboration adds another layer of entertainment for travelers.
No Betting for Now, But What About the Future?
While the current partnership does not include real-money sports betting, it could lay the groundwork for future expansion. Delta and DraftKings are keeping an eye on potential regulatory changes that may allow wagering in-flight.
Some states, like Connecticut, are already considering legislation (HB6051) that would permit sports betting on flights that originate or land within the state.
For now, Delta and DraftKings are positioning this as a gaming experience, not gambling. The airline has also confirmed that access to the DraftKings gaming platform will be restricted to SkyMiles members over the age of 21.
The Bigger Picture for Delta
This partnership is part of a broader digital transformation for Delta, which has been working to create a more connected and immersive passenger experience. Along with DraftKings, Delta is also teaming up with YouTube to provide more diverse entertainment options.
Delta CEO Ed Bastian, speaking at CES, emphasized the airline’s focus on bringing the comforts of home to air travel:
“We know they want an in-flight experience similar to what they have at home, including more ways to engage and stay entertained — which is why we’re excited to continue scaling Delta Sync products and bring even more to the experience soon, including expected collaborations with brands like YouTube and DraftKings.”
With over 200 million annual passengers, Delta sees gaming as another way to differentiate itself in an increasingly competitive airline industry.
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