Delta Air Lines made a splash at CES 2025 with a slew of announcements, including the introduction of an AI-powered assistant, an updated in-flight entertainment system, and exclusive perks for its SkyMiles frequent flier program members. The airline rented out the Sphere to unveil its latest slate of updates, which aim to enhance the overall travel experience for its customers.

The centerpiece of Delta's announcements is the Delta Concierge, an AI-powered assistant that will be integrated into the airline's app. The Concierge will offer proactive advice and guidance to fliers, starting with notifications about upcoming passport expirations and visa requirements. Over time, the service will expand to provide destination-specific notifications, such as local weather updates. While the concept may not be revolutionary in the age of large language models, the Concierge's goal is to provide personalized support to travelers throughout their journey.

In addition to the Concierge, Delta also showcased its updated in-flight entertainment system, which boasts 4K HDR QLED displays, Bluetooth connectivity, and a massive 96-terabyte onboard storage system. The new system, touted as the "first cloud-based in-flight entertainment system," promises a significant upgrade to existing systems and will begin rolling out in 2026. However, some industry observers have noted that Delta's competitor, United, has already introduced similar features, including 4K displays and Bluetooth connectivity, as part of its ongoing fleet refresh.

Delta is also offering a unique perk to its SkyMiles members: free access to YouTube Premium and YouTube Music on board its planes. This exclusive benefit is likely to be a major draw for frequent fliers, especially considering that United's Starlink-enabled fleet will not offer similar perks.

In a nod to the futuristic spirit of CES, Delta also announced its plans to collaborate with Airbus on the next phase of the fello'fly project. The ambitious initiative aims to reduce energy consumption by having planes fly in formation, similar to flocks of geese. While the concept is intriguing, it faces significant regulatory hurdles and is unlikely to become a reality anytime soon.

Overall, Delta's announcements at CES 2025 demonstrate the airline's commitment to investing in technology that enhances the travel experience. While some of the features may not be groundbreaking, they collectively contribute to a more seamless and enjoyable journey for Delta's customers. As the aviation industry continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how Delta's innovations shape the future of air travel.