Delta Airlines seat selection policy | Guide 2024

6 min readMar 20, 2024

Are you considering traveling on a Delta Airlines flight and would like to know more about the seat selection process and rules? Don’t worry, we have gathered all the necessary information to assist you in choosing your seats with the airline. This way, when you book your flight tickets, you’ll have a clear understanding of how to select your preferred seats.

Even if you have already completed the booking process without selecting your desired seats, there’s no need to fret. Delta Airlines allows passengers to choose their seats after booking their flight tickets. So, read on to discover the simple process of seat selection and other relevant details.

An Overview of Delta Airlines’ Seat Selection Policy!

Before selecting your seats, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with Delta Airlines’ seat selection policy. Nobody wants to end up in cramped seats during their trip. So, if you’re someone who prefers window or aisle seats, it’s best to understand Delta’s seat selection policy.

Here are the key points:

Seat selection is available during the booking process, after reservation, and during check-in.
Delta Airlines offers three seat options: Basic Economy, Main Cabin, and Preferred seats. You can choose the option that suits your preferences and requirements.
During check-in, Delta will assign seats based on their seat selection policy and availability.
It’s recommended to select your seats as early as possible to secure your preferred seats.
Once you have selected your seats, please note that changes or refunds are not allowed. If you decide to change your seat, the airline will not issue a refund.
If you have any further questions about Delta’s seat selection policy, we recommend reaching out to one of the airline’s travel agents. They will be happy to assist you.

Feel free to connect with a Delta Airlines travel agent if you have any remaining inquiries. They are always ready to assist.

How Can I Select a Seat on Delta Airlines?

To choose a seat on Delta Airlines, you have the option to do so either online or offline. We’ll explore both methods below.

Online Method through Website:

Begin by visiting the official website of Delta Airlines.
Enter the cities for your departure and destination.
Specify your trip type (such as one-way or round trip) and indicate the number of passengers.
Look for the “Select Seat” button and click on it.
You will be directed to a seat map where you can view the available seats.
Choose the seat that you prefer from the options displayed.
After selecting your seat, proceed to complete the payment process.
Once the payment is finalized, Delta Airlines will send you a confirmation email to confirm your seat selection.

Offline Method:

If you prefer not to select your seat online, you have the option to do so offline. Here’s how:

Contact Delta Airlines through their customer service hotline.
Inform the representative that you would like to select a seat for your upcoming flight.
Provide the necessary details, such as your flight information, departure, and destination.
The representative will assist you in choosing a seat based on availability and your preferences.
Once the seat selection is made, the representative will guide you through the payment process, if applicable.
You may receive a confirmation email or ticket with your selected seat information.
Remember, seat availability may vary depending on factors such as flight class, booking time, and the airline’s policies. It’s advisable to make your seat selection as early as possible to secure your preferred seat.

Delta Airlines Flight Seat Selection Rules

The seat selection rules for Delta Airlines flights vary based on the type of ticket you have. Let’s discuss the seat selection rules for each ticket type:

Basic Economy:

If you have purchased a Basic Economy ticket, seat selection is not available at the time of booking. Delta Airlines will assign you a seat when you check-in for your flight. It’s important to note the following:

Seat changes are not allowed.
Upgrades are not permitted.
Passengers with Basic Economy tickets are typically among the last to board the flight.
Please be prepared to potentially sit separately from your travel companions.

Main Cabin/Regular Economy:

For Main Cabin or Regular Economy tickets, you can select your seat on Delta Airlines flights at no additional cost. You have the option to choose your preferred seat, and upgrades are available. Additionally, you can opt for Delta Comfort Plus seats for an enhanced experience.

Premium Select:

If you have a Premium Select ticket, you will enjoy larger seats that offer better reclining and increased comfort. In addition to the upgraded seating, Premium Select provides the following benefits:

Earlier boarding privileges.
Complimentary seat selection within the Premium Select cabin.
Two free checked bags.

First Class and Delta One:

First Class and Delta One are the highest travel classes offered by Delta Airlines. Passengers with these ticket types can select their seats without any additional charges within their respective cabins. Furthermore, First Class and Delta One passengers are entitled to the following perks:

Priority boarding.
Two free checked bags.
Premium snacks and meals during the flight.
Dedicated flight attendant service.

It’s important to note that seat availability may vary depending on factors such as flight occupancy and specific aircraft configurations. It’s recommended to review the seat selection options and policies when booking your ticket to ensure you have the desired seating experience for your Delta Airlines flight.

What is the Cost of Delta Airlines Seat Selection?

The cost of seat selection on Delta Airlines depends on various factors, including your ticket type and the timing of your seat selection. Here are some key points to consider:

Seat Selection Cost:

The cost for seat selection is approximately $15 per seat if you choose it at least 7 days before your scheduled departure.
However, the actual cost may vary based on your specific ticket type and other factors.
It’s important to note that the cost of seat selection is subject to change, so it’s advisable to check with Delta Airlines for the most up-to-date information regarding seat selection fees.

Free Seat Selection:

Delta Airlines also offers the option to select seats for free during the check-in process.
Waiting until check-in begins allows you to potentially secure seats without any additional charges.
However, seat availability may be limited, so it’s recommended to check in as early as possible to increase your chances of getting preferred seats.

Advance Seat Selection:

Yes, you can select your seats in advance on Delta Airlines for flights operating within the US and Canada, as well as from the US to international routes.
It’s important to note that seat selection availability closes after check-in or 3 hours before the scheduled departure, so it’s advisable to make your seat selection before these deadlines.

Additional Considerations:

Delta Airlines does not allow the transfer of selected seats to new itineraries or flights.
Once you have selected your seats, they are generally non-changeable and non-refundable.

For passengers who are members of Delta’s SkyMiles program, there may be additional benefits related to seat selection. Depending on their status level, SkyMiles members may enjoy complimentary access to preferred seats and may also have the opportunity to be upgraded to higher travel classes based on their seat selection and status.

Can you Upgrade Seats on Delta Airlines?

Delta Airlines offers the option to upgrade seats for passengers, except for Basic Economy tickets. If you are considering upgrading your seat, here is some information to guide you:

Upgrade Eligibility:

Passengers holding tickets other than Basic Economy are generally eligible to upgrade their seats on Delta Airlines.

Seat Upgrade Process:

To upgrade your Delta Airlines seat, follow these steps:

Visit the official website of Delta Airlines.
Navigate to the “My Trips” section.
Enter your booking confirmation code and the last name of the passenger to access your flight details.
Look for the check-in option and check if the upgrade option is available.
Select the desired seating option based on your preferences.
Proceed to make the payment for the seat upgrade.

Additional Information:

For more detailed information on seat upgrades, it is advisable to visit the official website of Delta Airlines or speak with one of the airline’s agents. They will be able to provide you with specific details and assist you further with the seat upgrade process.

Please note that seat upgrade availability may vary depending on factors such as flight occupancy, ticket type, and other factors. It is recommended to check the specific policies and options for seat upgrades when making your reservation with Delta Airlines.

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