Delta Air Lines has various cabin classes for its flights, which include Basic Economy and Delta One, and each of them has different seat selection rules. Whether you are a passenger who wants to save money or you need more space, this information is important to you. In this article, I will explain the Delta Airlines seat selection policy, what you need to know about each class, and the steps you should take to choose your favorite seat.
Delta Airlines Seat Selection Policy and Rules
There are varying policies for different kinds of passengers traveling on different kinds of fares on Delta Airlines. So, in order to get the appropriate seat on the plane, you must have a firm knowledge of the Delta Airlines seat selection policy:
Basic Economy Seats
Basic Economy fares are designed for travelers seeking the most affordable option. Here’s what you need to know about seat selection:
- Seat Assignment: At the time of booking, you can purchase a seat assignment via Reservations, Airport Customer Service, Delta.com, or the FlyDelta App. The fee is per seat, per flight segment, and subject to availability. Note that seat assignment purchase is currently available only for wholly domestic flights.
- Advance Selection: Passengers can do Delta basic economy seat selection starting seven days before departure—for a fee. So, even if you’re on a budget, you can still secure your preferred spot in the cabin.
Main Cabin (Economy Class) Seats
The Main Cabin offers a comfortable travel experience. Here’s what you should know about seat selection:
- When booking a Main Cabin ticket, you can choose your seat at no extra cost. Use the seat map during booking or access it later via My Trips or during check-in.
Premium Select Seats
Premium Select provides an enhanced experience with more legroom and additional amenities. Here’s how seat selection works:
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Passengers traveling in Premium Select can select their seats without any additional charge. Enjoy the extra space and comfort on eligible flights.
Delta Comfort+Seats
Delta Comfort+ offers extra legroom, priority boarding, and other perks. Here’s what you need to know:
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Delta Comfort+ passengers can choose their seats at no extra cost. These seats provide a more spacious and comfortable journey.
First Class and Delta One
Passengers in first class and Delta One enjoy premium seating, including lie-flat beds in Delta One. The cost varies based on the specific flight and route.
How to Select Seats on Delta Airlines
If you are willing to do Delta seat selection, there are various ways to do so. For your convenience, we have listed all of them below-
Selecting Seats During Booking
When booking your Delta flight, you have the opportunity to choose your seat. Here’s how:
- Online Booking: During the booking process on the Delta website, you’ll encounter a seat map. This map displays available seats, including their location (aisle, window, or middle). Select the preferred seat you wish to sit on. Keep in mind that some seats may be labeled as “occupied” if another passenger has already chosen them.
- Delta App: If you’re using the Delta app, you can also select your seat during the booking process. Look for the “Select Seat” option, which is typically grayed out for basic economy passengers. However, starting seven days before your flight, this function becomes available.
- Upgrade Options: If you want to upgrade to Delta One®, Delta Premium Select seats, First Class, or Delta Comfort+®, you can do so during booking. These upgrades are available on eligible flights within the U.S. and Canada, as well as on most international flights to and from the U.S.
Selecting Seats While Checking In
Even if you didn’t choose a seat during booking, don’t worry! You can still select one during the check-in process:
- Online Check-In: When checking in online (usually 24 hours before your flight), you’ll see the seat map again. Pick your desired seat based on availability. Remember that some seats may already be occupied by other passengers.
- Delta App Check-In: In this way, you can use the Delta mobile application to check in for the flight and choose the seat. To do so, navigate to the ‘Purchase Seat’ section and pick the seat that you want.
Selecting Seats at the Airport
If you want to wait until you get to the airport, then follow these steps:
- At the Airport: To check in, go to the Delta check-in counter or use the kiosks. The staff will assist you in selecting an available seat. Keep in mind that popular seats may be limited, so arrive early if you have specific preferences.
- Gate Agent Assistance: If you haven’t chosen a seat by the time you reach the gate, speak to the gate agent. They’ll help assign a seat based on availability.
Delta Airlines Seat Selection Fees
Delta Air Lines offers a range of cabin classes, including economy, Premium Select, first class, and Delta One. When booking your flight, you’ll have the opportunity to select your seat, but the cost and options vary based on the type of ticket you purchase.
- Basic economy tickets come with the most restrictions. Unfortunately, seat selection is not available for these tickets. Passengers are randomly assigned seats after check-in, even for families and groups traveling together.
- On average, Delta charges around $15 or more per flight for seat selection. However, the exact Delta seat selection fee depends on the type of ticket you book.
- For domestic flights, selecting Economy Plus (similar to Delta Comfort+) typically costs between $30 and $50.
Summary
After reading the article, you may have found out about the Delta Airlines seat selection policy for different classes of cabins. Basic Economy to Delta Comfort+ has options for passengers to customize their travel experience. Thus, even cheap ticket buyers can choose the seats they want if they only plan their trip in advance. So, the next time you fly with Delta, it is always advisable to make the right selection and have a good time.
FAQs
1) Do post-purchase seat upgrades earn Medallion Qualification Dollars (MQDs)?
Yes, post-purchase upgrades earn MQDs, which contribute to elite status qualification.
2) Can I book an award ticket in an upgraded cabin using miles?
Yes, you can use miles to book an award ticket in an upgraded cabin, subject to availability.
3) Why I Cannot Upgrade My Seat?
Some factors that may determine availability include the availability of seats, the type of ticket used, the route to be taken, and the demand for the seats. Some of the seats may be out of service or be in some way restricted from use.
4) What does the seat map label ‘X Unavailable’ mean?
This means that the seat is not selectable. It could be assigned to a certain category of passengers, or it could be off-limits for some reason.