Delta Air Lines upgrades WiFi systems on Boeing 717s and regional jets

Delta Air Lines has selected a new provider for its in-flight WiFi systems on regional aircraft and Boeing 717s. Starting in the second quarter of 2024, Hughes Network Systems’ connectivity solutions will be installed on more than 400 of his aircraft.

New Wi-Fi for 717 and regional aircraft

In-flight WiFi is a critical amenity for passengers, and airlines around the world are investing heavily in connectivity. A recent example is Qatar Airways choosing SpaceX’s Starlink connectivity to its aircraft. Today, Delta Air Lines, one of the largest airlines in the United States, announced that it has selected Hughes Network Systems, Inc. to power its regional aircraft and Boeing 717s. In total, more than 400 aircraft will be equipped with Fuse’s connection solution.

Photo: Delta Airlines

This connection has been tested since March 2023, with several people participating in video calls onboard the aircraft, with no bandwidth issues and excellent results. This was allowed for testing purposes, but calls of any kind are not allowed onboard aircraft within the United States. In addition to improved connectivity and speeds, passengers will be able to use his WiFi on board from gate to gate. This is not available on most regional aircraft in the United States. WiFi is often only available above 10,000 feet.

“Travelers expect a reliable Wi-Fi experience wherever they are, including in the air. Hughes’ inflight connectivity solutions will enable Delta to meet that expectation with fast gate-to-gate connectivity.” – Reza Rasoulian, Vice President, Hughes

Today’s announcement is part of Delta’s commitment to provide free Wi-Fi on all aircraft by 2024. Earlier this year, the company announced that 80% of its fleet would have free connectivity by February 1, fulfilling a promise it made several years ago. Made possible by his partnership with mobile phone providers T-Mobile and Viasat, all passengers with a SkyMiles account have access to onboard Wi-Fi from gate to gate.

The focus began with Delta’s flagship aircraft, including the Airbus A320 family, Boeing 737 family, and widebody aircraft, leaving the Boeing 717 and regional jets for last. Delta plans to begin installing the new equipment on these aircraft starting in the second quarter of next year and roll out connectivity to more passengers.

delta airlines 717

It’s pretty interesting that Delta Air Lines is installing new WiFi equipment on its 717 aircraft. If you’re not familiar with this type and its history, here’s some background.

Delta Air Lines is one of only three remaining companies operating the 717 in the world. Boeing’s narrowbody aircraft was developed by McDonnell Douglas before its merger with Boeing in 1997. Previously known as MD-95, the first 717 flew in his October 1998. The 717 program had a short lifespan, with the last two aircraft delivered in his 2006 year. Fast forward to 2023, and only three airlines have 717s in their fleet: Delta Air Lines, Hawaiian Airlines, and Qantas Link.

Photo: Lucas Souza | Simple Flight

According to data from ch-aviation, Delta Air Lines has 90 717s in its fleet, with 71 in service and 19 listed as inactive, meaning either under maintenance or in storage. The 717 is one of the oldest aircraft in Delta’s fleet, although Delta has only operated the aircraft since 2013. The average age of a 717 is 21.9 years. As newer, more fuel-efficient aircraft like the Airbus A220 become available, Delta already has plans to retire the 717, announcing in September 2020 that the aircraft will be on its way by 2025. announced that he would be retiring. Delta Air Lines told Simple Flying there is nothing new. I would like to share about the retirement of 717 aircraft.