From securing that coveted window view to ensuring you have enough legroom to stretch out, your seat can significantly impact your travel experience. Let's delve into how and when you can choose your seat on Delta flights and some tips to help you make the best choice.
During Booking: Your First Opportunity
When you book a flight with Delta, one of the first chances you’ll have to select your seat is during the booking process. As you go through the steps of choosing your flight and entering your personal information, you’ll eventually reach a seat selection screen. Here, you’ll see a seat map of the aircraft, allowing you to choose from available seats.
Delta offers a variety of fare classes, and the ability to choose your seat may depend on the type of ticket you purchase. For example, if you book a Basic Economy fare, you might not be able to select your seat until after check-in. However, with Main Cabin, Comfort+, and higher fare classes, you can usually choose your seat during booking without any additional charge.
Manage My Trips: Flexibility After Booking
If you didn’t choose a seat during the initial booking process, or if you want to change your seat later, Delta’s “Manage My Trips” feature is your go-to tool. Accessible via Delta’s website or mobile app, this feature allows you to enter your confirmation number and last name to view and modify your reservation.
Through “Manage My Trips,” you can select or change your seat at any time after booking, subject to availability. This flexibility is especially useful if your plans change or if you find a better seat becomes available closer to your departure date.
Check-In: The Last Chance for Seat Selection
Your final opportunity to choose or change your seat comes at check-in, which opens 24 hours before your flight’s departure. During the online check-in process, you can review and select available seats. While the best seats might already be taken by this point, it’s still worth checking if you’re looking to change your seat or if you didn’t select one earlier.
It’s always a good idea to check in as soon as the window opens to maximize your chances of securing a decent seat. Early check-in can also help you avoid any last-minute seat changes or reassignments.
Special Considerations for Families and Special Needs
Delta is committed to accommodating families and passengers with special needs. Here’s how they handle these situations:
Families with Young Children: If you’re traveling with children, Delta strives to seat families together. It’s advisable to select your seats as early as possible to ensure your family can sit together. If you encounter any issues, Delta’s customer service can assist you in finding suitable seating arrangements.
Passengers with Disabilities or Special Needs: If you require special assistance or have specific seating needs due to a disability, contact Delta’s accessibility assistance team. They can help you secure a seat that meets your requirements, such as a bulkhead seat for extra legroom or a seat near the lavatories.
Benefits of Choosing Your Seat Early
Selecting your seat early comes with several benefits that can enhance your travel experience:
Comfort: Early seat selection increases your chances of securing a more comfortable seat, such as those with extra legroom or a preferred location on the plane.
Peace of Mind: Knowing you have your preferred seat reserved can reduce travel stress and anxiety, allowing you to focus on enjoying your trip.
Convenience: Choosing your seat early gives you the opportunity to plan your flight experience, whether you prefer to be near the front for a quick exit or at the back where it’s often quieter.
Avoiding Fees: By selecting your seat during booking, especially if it’s included in your fare class, you can avoid additional seat selection fees that might apply later.
Tips for Choosing the Best Seat
Now that you know when you can choose your seat on Delta flights, here are some tips to help you pick the best one:
Use Seat Maps: Tools like SeatGuru provide detailed seat maps and reviews, helping you avoid seats with limited recline, proximity to high-traffic areas, or other drawbacks.
Consider Your Needs: Think about what’s most important to you – extra legroom, proximity to the lavatories, being near the front, or having a window view. Prioritize these factors when selecting your seat.
Check Back Often: If you didn’t get your preferred seat during booking, keep checking back. Passengers frequently change their seats, and better options might become available closer to the departure date.
Book Early: The earlier you book your flight, the better your chances of securing your preferred seat. As soon as you know your travel dates, book your flight and select your seat.
Delta Comfort+: A Worthwhile Upgrade
If you’re looking for a little extra comfort without splurging on First Class, consider upgrading to Delta Comfort+. This fare class offers more legroom, dedicated overhead bin space, and early boarding. Plus, you’ll have complimentary beer, wine, and snacks on longer flights.
Delta Comfort+ seats are often located in the front of the Main Cabin, making it easier to disembark quickly upon arrival. If comfort and convenience are priorities for you, this upgrade can be well worth the additional cost.
In Conclusion
Choosing your seat on a Delta flight is a crucial part of planning your travel experience. By understanding when and how you can select your seat – during booking, through “Manage My Trips,” or at check-in – and by following some key tips, you can secure a seat that enhances your comfort and convenience. Remember to book early, use available tools, and prioritize your preferences to get the best seat possible.
