Delta Airlines and DraftKings partner for free in-flight gaming, not real-money gambling, via Delta Sync Wi-Fi. Explore legal challenges and expected casino games.
In early February 2025, Delta Airlines and DraftKings announced a collaboration to enhance in-flight entertainment by introducing gaming options through Delta’s Sync Wi-Fi system. This partnership initially teased at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in January 2025, has sparked significant interest and debate, particularly regarding its implications for online gambling during flights. While the deal has been clarified to exclude real-money gambling, it represents a notable shift in how airlines approach passenger entertainment, leveraging DraftKings’ expertise in digital gaming.
Overview of the Delta-DraftKings Deal
The Delta-DraftKings partnership focuses on providing free gaming experiences to eligible SkyMiles members via Delta Sync Wi-Fi, accessible through passengers’ personal electronic devices. Delta has emphasized that this collaboration does not involve real-money wagering or using SkyMiles for gambling, addressing concerns raised by various stakeholders. According to Delta’s official statements, the partnership aims to build on the existing games portfolio available through Delta Sync and seatback screens, enhancing the in-flight experience without violating federal laws.
Delta’s CEO, Ed Bastian, highlighted the potential for this deal to redefine in-flight entertainment, noting that passengers should not have to “hit pause” on their gaming experiences when boarding a plane. DraftKings, a leading digital sports entertainment and gaming company, brings its technological expertise to the table, ensuring a seamless integration of gaming options into Delta’s systems. Posts found on social media have underscored that this partnership was never likely to involve real-money gaming, despite initial assumptions by media outlets and the public.
Latest News and Developments
As of February 2025, Delta has confirmed that the partnership with DraftKings will not involve real-money gambling, aligning with federal regulations prohibiting such activities on commercial aircraft. On February 7, 2025, Delta clarified through various channels, including posts on X, that the plan involves free in-flight gaming powered by DraftKings technology, without any monetary stakes. This clarification came after significant speculation and concern from industry pundits and anti-gambling advocates, who feared the deal might exacerbate gambling addiction issues.
The partnership is part of Delta’s broader Delta Sync program, launched in 2023, which provides free high-speed Wi-Fi on over 330 aircraft in its fleet. This program lets passengers personalize their flights and entertainment, with the DraftKings collaboration being the latest addition. Travel and Leisure reported on February 5, 2025, that Delta expects to finalize the deal within the year, focusing on non-monetary gaming options to avoid potential legal conflicts with local gambling laws.
Legal Ramifications and Challenges
The legal landscape surrounding in-flight gambling is complex, primarily due to a 1962 U.S. law that outlaws gambling on commercial aircraft. This law has been a significant barrier for airlines considering such ventures, as noted by Senator Richard Blumenthal in January 2025, when he urged Delta and DraftKings to halt their partnership due to potential legal violations. Despite Delta’s assurance that real-money gambling is not part of the exploration, the legal ramifications remain a point of contention.
Connecticut introduced a concept bill in January 2025 that would allow bettors to wager through DraftKings, FanDuel, and Fanatics sportsbooks during flights originating or terminating in the state. However, as Front Office Sports reported on January 23, 2025, this bill raises major questions about compliance with federal laws. The timing of the bill, coinciding with the Delta-DraftKings announcement and President Donald Trump’s return to the White House, suggests a potential shift in regulatory attitudes, but no concrete changes have been enacted as of February 2025.
Anti-gambling advocates and casino lobbyists have also voiced opposition, fearing that in-flight gaming could lead to increased gambling addiction or loss of revenue for land-based casinos. On January 13, 2025, CBS Minnesota reported that this partnership sets up a showdown between airline and casino lobbyists, with the latter likely fighting the collaboration. Despite these challenges, Delta’s focus on non-monetary gaming aims to sidestep these legal hurdles, though future legislative changes could alter the landscape.
Expected Casino Games for Fliers
Given the current legal constraints, fliers can expect to access free casino-style games that do not involve real-money wagering. These games will likely include digital versions of popular casino offerings, such as slot machines, poker, and blackjack, but played for entertainment purposes only. Delta’s collaboration with DraftKings aims to leverage the company’s expertise in gaming technology, ensuring a high-quality experience that complements the existing in-seat entertainment options.
While specific details on the games portfolio are still being finalized, Delta has indicated that the offerings will be integrated into the Delta Sync Wi-Fi system, accessible through personal devices. This approach aligns with the airline’s commitment to avoiding real-money gambling. Passengers might see games similar to those already available on seatback screens, enhanced by DraftKings’ digital capabilities, providing a seamless and engaging experience during flights.
Statistics and Industry Context
The iGaming industry has grown significantly, with DraftKings being a leading player. According to Morgan Stanley’s 2024 Bi-Annual Sports Betting Survey, DraftKings was the number one app for online bettors, with 68% of respondents reporting usage in the past six months. This dominance, alongside FanDuel, highlights the market’s early-mover advantage, with over 80% of online sports bettors using either platform. While these statistics pertain to real-money betting, they underscore DraftKings’ prominence in the gaming sector, which Delta aims to tap into for non-monetary entertainment.
The potential value of in-flight gaming, if legalized, is substantial. Industry estimates suggest that a deal allowing real-money betting on U.S. flights could be worth up to $1.3 billion, as reported by iGaming Business. However, given the current legal framework, Delta’s focus on free gaming aligns with regulatory constraints while still offering value to passengers. Forbes reported on February 3, 2025, that most legal betting states set the minimum age to gamble on sports at 21, with some jurisdictions allowing 18+, further complicating the legal landscape for in-flight gambling.
Final Thoughts on This Partnership
The Delta Airlines and DraftKings partnership significantly enhances in-flight entertainment, focusing on free gaming experiences that comply with federal laws. While the deal has faced scrutiny and legal challenges, Delta’s clarification that real-money gambling is not part of the exploration addresses immediate concerns. Fliers can look forward to a range of casino-style games, integrated into Delta’s Sync Wi-Fi system, offering entertainment without financial risk. As the iGaming industry grows, this partnership could pave the way for future innovations, pending legislative changes. Delta and DraftKings are now navigating a complex legal landscape to deliver a unique and engaging experience in the skies.
iGaming enthusiast and writer. I enjoy playing and testing new slots as well as working with many developers in the casino software industry. My new passion includes covering the endless innovation of crypto for iGaming its benefits for both players and casinos.
