Delta Air Lines has begun surveying its passengers to assess potential interest in inflight sports betting. The move signals the airline’s exploration of offering betting services while in the air, a concept that has gained attention as carriers look for new ways to boost ancillary revenue.
The survey, distributed to select passengers, asks questions about betting preferences, sports interests, and willingness to wager during a flight. It also explores how passengers currently engage with sports betting, and whether they would be open to using their mobile devices for real-money wagers while traveling.
Legal and technical considerations, including jurisdictional compliance and internet connectivity at cruising altitude, remain challenges for any airline attempting to implement inflight sports betting. Still, Delta’s survey indicates early-stage interest in potentially entering the market, depending on the response from its customer base.
No official partnership or platform has been announced, and Delta has not confirmed whether it will proceed with offering the service. However, industry analysts suggest the initiative reflects a broader trend in aviation and entertainment, as companies look to integrate emerging digital gambling opportunities into existing customer experiences.
Some question the legality of this situation, noting that Delta’s lawyers probably know they are complying with the amended Gambling Devices Act of 1962. The gambling offered is promoted via their online content, but the act itself is carried out on a website which they do not host.