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Delta CEO Denies Rejecting Starlink Over Elon Musk, Says “I Drive A Tesla”
Live and Let's Fly • • business
Key Points:
- Delta CEO Ed Bastian clarified that the airline's decision to pass on Starlink was based on disagreements over the business model and customer access, not personal animosity toward Elon Musk.
- Bastian highlighted Delta's early involvement in Starlink testing and praised the technology but noted it was not ready to scale when Delta needed it.
- Despite rumors, Bastian denied any feud with Musk, citing that he personally drives a Tesla and dismissing suggestions that personal issues influenced the decision.
- Delta plans to improve its current in-flight internet services with Hughes and Viasat by the end of the year and supports its upcoming Amazon Leo satellite agreement starting in 2028.
- While Delta has historically pushed for fast, free Wi-Fi, it faces increasing competition from United Airlines, which is expanding Starlink installations and may soon offer superior connectivity.
