Delta Air and DraftKings with future gaming in the sky
Delta Air Lines caused a stir at the CES 2025 in Las Vegas. The airline unveiled a collaboration with DraftKings. This agreement signals a bold step by Delta into the world of sports betting. However, details of the partnership are currently scarce. Delta's CEO Ed Bastian spoke in an interview about the potential of this collaboration. He hinted that passengers could expect an improved gaming experience during the flight. The goal is to expand the Delta Sync experience. Passengers should experience exciting activities that go beyond classic in-flight entertainment.
However, the idea of in-flight sports betting faces a hurdle. According to the Gambling Devices Act of 1962, gambling on board aircraft is prohibited in the USA. This piece of legislation severely restricts the implementation of such innovations. Nevertheless, there is speculation that these rules could be reconsidered in the future.
Ed Bastian emphasized that gaming is already part of everyday life for many people, so it is important to enable this experience during the flight. Gambling is currently not allowed, but the collaboration with DraftKings could mark a turning point. Possible changes to gambling laws could revolutionize the experience in the air.
Delta Airlines and DraftKings are working on the implementation
While real gambling is not possible, playful alternatives could be offered to passengers. Fantasy sports or other interactive games would be conceivable. This would expand the onboard entertainment offering without violating legal regulations. Both companies have invested in digital entertainment. This could form a basis for creative approaches.
Delta commented: "We are excited to expand our gaming portfolio together with DraftKings. Further details will follow later." These statements leave room for speculation about the planned innovations.
If Delta is successful with this approach, it could impact the entire airline industry. Other airlines could discover gaming as a source of revenue. EasyJet, for example, launched easyBet.net, a platform for peer-to-peer betting, in 2024.
The topic of gambling on board has also been discussed for some time in the USA. A study from the 1990s showed the potential for millions in revenue from on-board gambling. Despite these forecasts, no changes to the law have been passed to date.
Will online games soon be possible in the airplane?
The collaboration between Delta and DraftKings could set new trends in the long term. Bonus programs that combine gambling with frequent flyer miles are also conceivable. SkyMiles could be used as a reward system for activities. Similar models already exist, for example in the partnership between BetMGM and Marriott.
Whether and how real gambling will be implemented at Delta remains to be seen. What is clear, however, is that gaming will become an increasingly important part of the passenger experience. The industry can look forward to seeing what innovations Delta and DraftKings develop together.
