Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian made history in the consumer electronics industry last week as the first airline executive to deliver the keynote speech for Las Vegas’ premier electronics trade show.
In a speech lasting more than 70 minutes, Bastian outlined a number of ways the airline looks to innovate the travel industry in 2020 and beyond. “We see technology as a tool to further our mission of connecting people and creating opportunities,” he said, with the ultimate goal of making travel easier for all involved.
You can watch Bastian’s full address on Delta’s website. The speech included a mass giveaway of the new blankets the airline is rolling out in Delta One, as well as two pairs of Delta One tickets for journalists in attendance. The big takeaways from the speech include changes to Delta’s app, in-flight services and personalized airport communication; and AI-driven platforms to promote thoughtful travel decisions in the workplace.
The Fly Delta app gets an overhaul to allow it to better anticipate customer needs. This “digital travel concierge” can help travelers reduce stress levels throughout their journey by arranging rides and offering helpful notifications tactfully. For example, the airline is deepening its relationship with Lyft to make ridesharing and flying less stressful on the whole.
In-flight services change, as well. Delta is working to become the first airline with dedicated in-flight channels that spotlight movies and shows meeting the ReFrame Stamp standard, meaning films and shows have females in at least four of eight key production roles. The standard, founded by the Sundance Institute and Women in Film, offers workshops, mentorships and other programs to help achieve gender balance in film and television.
“It’s a really important time for women everywhere, particularly in the entertainment industry,” explained Lulu Wang, writer and director, The Farewell, the first film Delta is featuring with the ReFrame Stamp standard.
During the presentation, Bastian also seemed to imply complimentary WiFi is coming to flights where applicable. In-flight connection capabilities include letting passengers purchase food and drinks with award miles, allowing guests to connect with other passengers and stay as connected or disconnected as they wish, all through the help of seatback screens.
Delta’s airport product is evolving as well. Bastian welcomed Nicole Jones, director of innovation, Delta, and Albert Ng, CEO, Misapplied Sciences, to announce parallel reality, which allows up to 100 customers to look at the same screen and receive personalized travel details. No further information was given at the time.
Finally, Delta Air Lines demonstrated a wearable, robotic exoskeleton. The suit will boost employee’s physical capabilities in everything from changing tires to lifting heavy luggage, and testing among employees begins this year.
Did you check out the full keynote speech? What do you think of some of the revolutions Delta plans to bring to the travel industry? Tell us. Email us at letters@globaltravelerusa.com. Please include your full name and location.
Read This Next
Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedDaily
Sep 25, 2026Why Lake Placid Belongs on Every Holiday Travel List
Lake Placid, New York, should be on your winter travel radar. With its snow-covered Adirondack peaks, charming Main Street and winter traditions, the destination creates a sense of nostalgic holiday fun.
Sponsored Content
Luxury Travel in Chilean Patagonia: Where Refinement Meets the Wild Edge
At the gateway to Chilean Patagonia, Los Lagos opens a landscape in constant motion. Volcanic peaks rise sharply above glacial lakes, mist moves through dense forests, and light shifts across every horizon. Here, luxury travel in Chilean Patagonia unfolds moment by moment, balancing raw energy with seamless comfort.
Daily
Sep 25, 2026New Branding for Luxury Palace Cairo Hotel
One of Kempinski’s most distinctive palace hotels, the Royal Maxim Palace Kempinski, has just been rebranded as Kempinski Palace Cairo. Conveniently and centrally positioned in New Cairo, this 5-star property combines classic European elegance with the hospitality for which Egypt is recognized. Offering 245 swish rooms and suites, The Palace Spa by Resense, expansive event spaces, and a selection of culinary experiences, the hotel provides guest with a serene base that’s just 15 minutes from Cairo International Airport.
Daily
Sep 25, 2026Orient Express Sailing Yachts Announces Ocean Rebirth Wellness Retreat with Guerlain
Oct. 12–26, 2026, Orient Express Sailing Yachts and Guerlain welcome guests to an immersive journey with Ocean Rebirth, a fourteen-night wellness retreat aboard Orient Express Corinthian.
Sponsored Content
The World Awaits with Turkish Airlines’ Global Access
Turkish Airlines enjoys the unique position as the airline flying to more countries than any other airline. Its unrivaled global reach is only the beginning of the experience that awaits passengers with Turkish Airlines.
Daily
Sep 24, 2026Kimpton Mirador Pacific Grove Adds New Amenities, Programming
Opened in early 2026, Kimpton Mirador Pacific Grove continues its momentous year with newly added amenities and programming. Located in one of California’s most charming and culturally rich coastal towns, the hotel brought a new luxury lifestyle offering and a fresh spirit to the Monterey Peninsula.
4 Ways to Spend a Weekend in Cleveland, Ohio
Daily
Sep 23, 2026Review: Sage Lodge Resort & Spa
eFlyer Reviews
Sep 23, 2026Airlines
Sep 23, 2026American Airlines, Condor Airlines Announce New Interline Agreement
American Airlines and Condor Airlines expand their international partner network with a new interline agreement, providing travelers with a wide range of new connections. Passengers can expect connections to more than 150 cities through Condor’s trans-Atlantic gateways in major hubs like JFK, BOS and LAX.
Sponsored Content
Why Japan Is Best Explored by Sea with Princess
Japan is a destination that rewards repeat visits because no two regions — or seasons — feel quite the same. One moment, you’re wandering through centuries-old geisha districts in Kanazawa. The next, you’re watching neon reflections dance across Tokyo streets long after midnight.
eFlyer News
Sep 23, 2026Amex to Open First Centurion Lounge in Continental Europe at Amsterdam Schiphol
American Express officially became the first global credit card company to operate a lounge at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol. The brand’s Centurion Lounge opened at AMS Sept. 17, spanning nearly 6,000 square feet and offering a plethora of amenities.



ShareThis