Delta announced a new partnership with Huges, a satellite connectivity provider, to bring streaming-capable WiFi connectivity to its fleet of regional jets beginning in mid-2024.

In an interview on Delta’s website, Justin McCurry, vice president of in-flight entertainment and connectivity, said that customers traveling short-haul routes on Boeing 717s and fleet of regional jet aircraft will get free WiFi and Delta Sync (the carrier’s customized programming) next year with more than 400 aircraft being part of the program. They will have access to connectivity on personal devices from gate to gate.

The airline began offering free WiFi for SkyMiles members in February of this year. As of now, more than 600 domestic mainline aircraft are equipped with fast, free Wi-Fi. McCurry said that fast free WiFi now ranks among the top three drivers of customer satisfaction – “so much so that it actually improves the entire onboard experience as a result.”