Speaking at the 2025 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) held at Las Vegas’ Sphere venue, Delta CEO Ed Bastian unveiled the airline’s new AI-powered initiatives, starting with Delta Concierge.
This digital assistant, set to launch this year, aims to streamline travel by managing rebookings for delayed flights, navigating gate changes, and offering personalized recommendations.
Unlike many companies leaning on consumer-facing AI chatbots, Delta’s focus is operational. AI tools are being deployed to analyze passenger feedback, optimize gate assignments, and reduce connection times. Delta has partnered with experience management firm Qualtrics to process insights from 200 million travelers annually, translating feedback into tailored experiences.
“Experience is the currency of business today,” said Qualtrics executive chairman Ryan Smith.
Delta is also using AI to enhance in-flight entertainment. In collaboration with YouTube, the airline will introduce ad-free creator content on seatback screens and personal devices, with recommendations guided by AI but curated to retain a personal touch.
Hardware and infrastructure upgrades are also on the horizon. Starting in 2026, Delta plans to roll out 4K HDR QLED screens across its fleet, offering ultra high-definition entertainment with Bluetooth compatibility in all cabins.
Beyond AI, Delta is exploring futuristic mobility options. It announced an air taxi service with Joby Aviation, expected to launch in New York City and Los Angeles within the next few years. These electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft aim to cut travel time to the airport drastically, reducing a 90-minute car trip to just 10 minutes.
Looking further ahead, Delta is teaming up with Airbus to develop fuel-efficient aircraft and advance sustainable aviation. The airline is committed to scaling sustainable aviation fuel usage to 95% of its total consumption by 2050. Together with Airbus, Delta is exploring hydrogen-powered flight and innovative aerodynamic designs to achieve this ambitious goal.
With its AI and sustainability initiatives, Delta looks to be taking off towards a new era in aviation.
