Delta launches free in-flight sports game for passengers

Delta Air Lines and DraftKings officially launched SkyPicks, a first-of-its-kind in-flight sports prediction experience for passengers.

Eligible SkyMiles members ages 21 and older can use personal mobile devices or laptops via Delta Sync Wi-Fi to make sports predictions on real-world matchups.

To comply with federal regulations regarding gambling on commercial aircraft, the feature is completely free-to-play as there is no wagering, financial risk, cash-in, or deposit functionality.

Instead of cash payouts, top-performing participants on weekly and monthly leaderboards are awarded Delta Gift Cards to put toward future travel.

The feature launched with Major League Baseball (MLB) contests, with NFL matchups scheduled to follow.

Last year, U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal urged the companies not to allow gambling on board, citing a 1962 law that outlaws gambling on commercial aircraft.

The airline announced on Wednesday that the game will be open to passengers aged 21 and older and allow players to win Delta gift cards but does not include betting, deposit functionality, buy-in, or financial risk.

The game is available through Delta Sync Wi-Fi on mobile or personal devices, not seatback screens.

To avail this gaming opportunity customers must sign in with a DraftKings account or create one to unlock a set of questions about a single game, or a series of games.

The decision comes as airlines are offering more content including games, live TV and movies in the air to help entertain passengers.

Delta says sports content consistently ranks among the highest-performing categories on its in-air platform.