Can You Use Bluetooth Headphones With In-Flight Entertainment Delta?

Can you use Bluetooth headphones with in-flight entertainment Delta? If you frequently fly Delta and wonder if you can use your Bluetooth headphones to watch movies or listen to music from their in-flight entertainment system, you’ve come to the right place.

We’ll provide a detailed answer below, but yes, you can use Bluetooth headphones with Delta’s in-flight entertainment screens. However, it is not available on all flights, on some economy flights, depending on the aircraft, you might need to use the provided earbuds.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about pairing Bluetooth headphones or earbuds to Delta seatback screens. We discuss compatibility for various Delta aircraft, the pairing process and settings required, troubleshooting tips if your Bluetooth headset won’t connect, and the best Bluetooth headphone models to consider bringing on your next Delta flight.

Bluetooth Compatibility on Delta Planes

If you’re a frequent traveler with Delta Airlines, you may be wondering if you can use your Bluetooth headphones with their in-flight entertainment system. Fortunately, Delta has made significant advancements in its technology to accommodate the needs of its passengers.

What Delta planes have Bluetooth functionality

Delta currently offers Bluetooth functionality on most of its newer aircraft. This includes their Airbus A220, A321, A330-900neo, Boeing 737-900ER, and 757-200 planes. These aircraft are equipped with state-of-the-art entertainment systems that allow passengers to connect their Bluetooth headphones seamlessly.

With Bluetooth compatibility, you can enjoy your favorite movies, TV shows, and music without the hassle of tangled wires or having to use the provided headphones. Simply pair your Bluetooth headphones with the in-flight entertainment system and immerse yourself in your preferred entertainment.

It’s important to note that not all Delta planes have Bluetooth functionality. Older aircraft, such as the Boeing 717 and MD-88, may not have this feature. However, Delta is continually upgrading its fleet, so it’s possible that more planes will have Bluetooth capability in the future.

Personal device vs seatback screen pairing

When it comes to pairing your Bluetooth headphones with the Delta in-flight entertainment system, you have two options. You can connect your headphones directly to the seatback screen or pair them with your personal device.

If you choose to pair your headphones with the seatback screen, you’ll have access to a wide variety of entertainment options, including movies, TV shows, and games. This method allows you to control the content and volume directly from the screen.

On the other hand, if you prefer using your personal device for entertainment, you can connect your Bluetooth headphones to it. This gives you the freedom to watch your own movies or listen to your favorite music using the Delta app or other streaming services.

Just make sure to download the necessary apps or content before your flight to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

It’s worth mentioning that not all personal devices are compatible with the Delta in-flight entertainment system. Make sure to check Delta’s official website for a list of supported devices and operating systems to avoid any compatibility issues.

How to Pair Bluetooth Headphones with Delta IFE

Turning on Bluetooth discovery mode

Before you can pair your Bluetooth headphones with Delta’s in-flight entertainment (IFE) system, you need to make sure your headphones are in discovery mode. This allows them to be detected by other devices, such as the IFE system on the plane.

To enter discovery mode on most Bluetooth headphones, simply press and hold the power button for a few seconds until the LED light starts flashing or you hear a voice prompt indicating that the headphones are ready to pair.

Connecting and pairing your headphones

Once your Bluetooth headphones are in discovery mode, you can proceed to connect and pair them with the Delta IFE system. Here are the steps to follow:

Turn on the Delta IFE system by pressing the power button or following the instructions provided by the flight attendants.
Go to the settings menu on the IFE system and navigate to the Bluetooth section. This may vary depending on the type of IFE system Delta uses on their planes.
Ensure that Bluetooth is enabled on the IFE system and that it is searching for devices.

On your Bluetooth headphones, locate the pairing button or follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer to initiate the pairing process.
Wait for the IFE system to detect your headphones. Once detected, you should see your headphones listed on the IFE system’s Bluetooth menu.
Select your headphones from the list and follow any additional prompts or instructions on the IFE system to complete the pairing process.

Once the pairing process is complete, you should be able to enjoy your in-flight entertainment using your Bluetooth headphones.

Remember that the availability of Bluetooth connectivity may vary depending on the aircraft and the specific IFE system installed, so it’s always a good idea to check with Delta or refer to their official website for the most up-to-date information.

Troubleshooting Bluetooth Connectivity Issues

Bluetooth connectivity issues can be frustrating, especially when you’re trying to use your Bluetooth headphones with Delta’s in-flight entertainment system. However, there are a few troubleshooting steps you can take to resolve these issues and enjoy your favorite movies and music while flying.

Re-pairing your headphones

If you’re experiencing connectivity problems with your Bluetooth headphones, the first step is to re-pair them with your device. Start by turning off Bluetooth on your device and then turning it back on.

Next, put your headphones into pairing mode, which is usually done by pressing and holding a specific button or combination of buttons. Once in pairing mode, your device should be able to detect and connect to your headphones.

If re-pairing doesn’t solve the issue, try forgetting the headphones on your device and then re-pairing them. This can often help establish a fresh connection and resolve any underlying compatibility issues.

Airplane mode settings

Another potential cause of Bluetooth connectivity issues is the airplane mode setting on your device. Airplane mode disables all wireless connections, including Bluetooth. When using Bluetooth headphones with Delta’s in-flight entertainment system, make sure that airplane mode is turned off or that Bluetooth is specifically enabled.

It’s worth noting that some airlines may have restrictions on the use of Bluetooth devices during flights. Before attempting to connect your headphones, check with the airline’s guidelines to ensure that Bluetooth usage is permitted.

Trying a wired connection

If you’re still unable to establish a Bluetooth connection with Delta’s in-flight entertainment system, consider trying a wired connection instead. Most airlines provide headphone jacks for passengers to use with their own headphones.

Simply plug your wired headphones into the jack and enjoy the in-flight entertainment without any connectivity issues.

While Bluetooth headphones offer the convenience of wireless connectivity, having a backup wired option can be useful in situations where Bluetooth isn’t working as expected.

Remember, if you’re experiencing persistent connectivity issues with your Bluetooth headphones, it’s always a good idea to reach out to Delta’s customer support for further assistance. They may be able to provide specific troubleshooting steps or alternative solutions to help you enjoy your in-flight entertainment to the fullest.

Best Bluetooth Headphones for In-Flight Use

When it comes to enjoying in-flight entertainment, having a good pair of headphones can make all the difference. If you prefer the convenience of Bluetooth technology, there are several options available that will allow you to connect wirelessly to the Delta in-flight entertainment system.

Over-ear noise-canceling models

One popular choice for in-flight use is over-ear noise-canceling headphones. These headphones not only provide excellent sound quality but also help to block out any background noise, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in your movie or music.

Some top-rated models in this category include the Bose QuietComfort 35 II and the Sony WH-1000XM4. These headphones offer a comfortable fit and impressive noise-cancellation capabilities, ensuring a great listening experience during your flight.

True wireless earbuds

If you prefer a more compact option, true wireless earbuds are a great choice for in-flight use. These small earbuds offer the convenience of Bluetooth technology without the bulk of over-ear headphones.

The Apple AirPods Pro and the Jabra Elite 75t are two highly recommended options in this category. They provide excellent sound quality, a secure fit, and convenient features like active noise cancellation and transparency mode.

Wired backup option

While Bluetooth headphones are a convenient choice, it’s always a good idea to have a backup option in case of any connectivity issues. Bringing a pair of wired headphones is a smart move, as they can be easily plugged into the in-flight entertainment system.

This ensures that you can still enjoy your movies and music even if your Bluetooth headphones encounter any problems. Many headphones, such as the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x, offer both wired and wireless connectivity options, giving you the best of both worlds.

Remember, it’s important to check with Delta’s specific guidelines and regulations regarding the use of Bluetooth headphones on their flights. While most airlines allow the use of Bluetooth devices, it’s always best to double-check to avoid any potential issues.