Morgan Durrant, a Delta spokesperson, told Ars Technica that an unauthorized Wi‑Fi network was present on the aircraft for a short time. He explained that the network was not provided, operated, or supplied by Delta, and that it appeared briefly during the flight.

Delta confirmed that safety was never in question and that no aircraft operating systems were affected. The airline noted that no emergency was declared and that the legitimate onboard Wi‑Fi was disabled for 30 minutes while the rogue signal existed. The flight in question was Flight 591, traveling from Atlanta.

Atlanta Police referred all inquiries to the FBI, which is now investigating the incident. A spokesperson for FBI Atlanta said the bureau is in contact with local and corporate partners and has no additional information to share at this time. No arrests were made, and agents did not meet the aircraft at the gate.

The incident underscores the risk of rogue hotspots at large events such as DEF CON, where malicious actors can create fake networks to target passengers. Authorities continue to monitor the situation, and Delta is cooperating fully with the FBI and other partners. The findings are being reported by Ars Technica. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities review possible motives and ensure passenger safety.