The Consumer Technology Association (CTA) has announced that Ed Bastian, Chief Executive of Delta Air Lines, will return as a keynote speaker at CES 2025. In an industry first, Bastian’s address will be hosted at Sphere in Las Vegas, a revolutionary new venue that promises to immerse attendees in cutting-edge technology through advanced audio and visual displays. This keynote will mark the first time a CES address has been held at Sphere, adding an unprecedented level of immersion to one of the world’s largest technology events.
Scheduled for 5 p.m. PT on 7 January 2025, Bastian’s keynote will explore Delta’s ambitions to enhance travel experiences through innovative technology. “Technology is a powerful tool, but it’s people that make true innovation possible,” Bastian said, highlighting Delta’s goal of advancing into what he describes as “a new era” in aviation. With a history of CES appearances, Delta has become the first airline to use CES as a platform for its technological advancements, starting with its initial keynote in 2020, followed by another in 2023, where Delta announced free Wi-Fi across its fleet for SkyMiles members.
This latest appearance at CES is particularly significant, as CTA is celebrating its centenary. Gary Shapiro, CEO of CTA, remarked on the occasion, “After celebrating CTA’s centennial year, we recognise what a pivotal time this is for an organisation, and we are thrilled that Delta is sharing part of this moment with us at CES.” Shapiro commended Delta’s approach to leveraging technology to transform the travel industry, adding, “The sky is the limit for Delta’s vision of the future of travel, and we look forward to seeing how they bring it to life at Sphere.”
Sphere’s advanced technological capabilities are expected to add a unique dimension to the keynote presentation. Featuring the “Exosphere,” the world’s largest LED screen, alongside Sphere Immersive Sound powered by HOLOPLOT, the venue boasts an interior display that is set to deliver the highest-resolution LED visuals available globally. Jennifer Koester, President and Chief Operating Officer at Sphere, commented on the upcoming presentation, “Sphere is a powerful platform for brands to connect with key audiences, leveraging next-generation technologies to deliver a one-of-a-kind experience and amplify their message. With teams from Sphere, Delta, and CES all driven by a passion for innovation, this keynote promises to be unlike anything audiences have ever experienced before.”
To support the influx of CES attendees, Delta will increase flight services to and from Las Vegas, while Delta SkyMiles members arriving at Harry Reid International Airport between 5 and 7 January will have access to expedited CES badge pickup services.
CES 2025 will be held from 7 to 10 January, with registration now open. This year’s event is expected to attract thousands of attendees from around the globe, eager to witness the latest in technology and innovation. Bastian’s keynote presentation at Sphere requires a separate ticket, available only to CES credentialed attendees, with further details expected in the coming weeks. Registration for CES 2025 is open now.