Imagine settling into your airplane seat and diving into the vibrant worlds of Demon Slayer or Jujutsu Kaisen at 30,000 feet. That fantasy becomes reality later this year as Delta Air Lines partners with Crunchyroll to launch the largest anime library ever offered in-flight. This landmark deal will transform Delta’s seatback screens into gateways to Japanese animation, featuring over 2,000 titles and 50,000+ episodes across the airline’s global fleet. For anime enthusiasts, this transforms long-haul flights from tedious journeys into immersive entertainment experiences.
How Will Anime Availability Enhance Delta’s In-Flight Experience?
Delta’s 169,000 seatback screens will soon showcase Crunchyroll’s massive catalog, providing 25,000+ hours of anime content across genres from action to romance. This strategic move addresses growing passenger demand for specialized entertainment options during air travel. “There’s nothing better on a long flight than immersing yourself in the rich storytelling of anime,” affirms Rahul Purini, President of Crunchyroll, in an exclusive statement to The Wrap. The integration allows travelers to binge entire series or sample diverse titles during their journey, with seamless continuation available via Crunchyroll’s app post-flight.
The collaboration includes a premium perk for Delta SkyMiles members: complimentary 24-hour access to Crunchyroll’s full library when connected to Delta’s Wi-Fi. This offering, subject to certain restrictions, extends entertainment beyond the aircraft cabin, letting travelers finish cliffhangers after landing. The initiative aligns with Delta’s broader strategy to enhance premium amenities, following recent expansions like Shake Shack burger availability on select routes.
Why Is This Partnership a Game-Changer for Travel Entertainment?
This unprecedented aviation-entertainment crossover arrives as anime consumption soars globally. According to the 2024 Global Anime Market Report, international demand for Japanese animation has grown 300% since 2020, with travelers increasingly expecting personalized content during transit. Delta’s move strategically positions them ahead of competitors in catering to younger demographics and diverse passenger preferences.
The technical execution showcases impressive scale: content will be accessible without requiring personal devices or streaming subscriptions. Industry analysts note this partnership reflects shifting airline priorities toward digital experience. “Airlines now recognize that entertainment quality directly impacts brand loyalty,” states aviation expert Miranda Chen of Skift Research. Delta’s investment in specialized content creates a sticky experience that resonates with dedicated fan communities.
Key benefits for travelers include:
- Instant access without downloads or Wi-Fi purchases
- Curated selections spanning classics and new releases
- Parental control options for family viewing
- Continuity between flight and ground viewing
| Delta’s entertainment evolution timeline | Year | Enhancement | Scope |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Free Wi-Fi rollout | Entire domestic fleet | |
| 2024 | Shake Shack meal options | 50+ international routes | |
| 2025 | Crunchyroll integration | 169,000+ seatback screens |
“We’re excited to share what we love with Delta passengers and go to new heights together,” Purini emphasized, signaling anime’s mainstream breakthrough in travel spaces. The initiative may inspire similar niche-content partnerships across the aviation industry.
Delta passengers can soon transform travel time into an anime adventure, with over 2,000 titles available at their fingertips. This industry-first collaboration between Crunchyroll and Delta Airlines sets a new standard for specialized in-flight entertainment, turning cross-continental journeys into immersive cultural experiences. Check Delta’s entertainment portal for rollout schedules and prepare your watchlist—your next flight might just become your favorite anime viewing destination.
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Must Know
When will anime be available on Delta flights?
The Crunchyroll library will launch on Delta seatback screens later in 2025. While exact dates are pending, Delta confirms installation will occur before holiday travel season across their widebody and select narrowbody aircraft equipped with entertainment systems.
How many anime titles can passengers access?
Travelers will have over 2,000 anime series and films at their fingertips, representing more than 50,000 individual episodes. This includes popular franchises like Attack on Titan and My Hero Academia, plus exclusive Crunchyroll Originals.
Can I watch without a seatback screen?
Yes. Delta SkyMiles members can claim a 24-hour Crunchyroll trial via onboard Wi-Fi to watch on personal devices. However, the full experience with no streaming required is exclusive to seatback screens.
Will content be available on all routes?
The library will be accessible globally on aircraft with seatback entertainment systems. Regional jets without screens won’t feature the content. Delta confirms 95% of international routes and 70% of domestic routes will have coverage.
Does this replace Delta’s existing entertainment?
No. Anime complements Delta’s current film and TV offerings. The system will feature a dedicated Crunchyroll hub alongside other genres, with parental controls available for family viewing.
