Flying first class just got a little less expensive, provided you’re willing to make a few compromises.
Delta announced Thursday that it’s expanding its unbundled fare strategy into its premium cabins with new lower-priced fare options for Delta One, domestic first class, and Delta Premium Select that let travelers pay less in exchange for giving up some flexibility and premium benefits.
What travelers still get
Delta, like many other airlines, rolled out Basic, Classic, and Extra fare options in the Main Cabin across much of its network last year.
The lower-priced premium fares do not change the onboard seat or inflight service. Passengers who book Basic Business in Delta One, for instance, will still receive the same lie-flat seat, meals, beverages, bedding, and onboard service as other Delta One passengers. The same applies to Delta First Basic and Delta Premium Select Basic. The cabin experience remains the same regardless of fare purchased.
What travelers give up
When it comes to concessions, what you’re giving up with the lower fare happens primarily before and after the flight.
Depending on the fare and route, travelers may receive:
- No complimentary advance seat selection
- Reduced or no lounge access that would otherwise be included with eligible Delta One fares
- No dedicated premium check-in
- Lower baggage allowances
- More restrictive change and cancellation policies
- Fewer SkyMiles and Medallion Qualification Dollars
- Lower boarding priority
- No complimentary upgrades
Still, a lighter bag in exchange for a lie-flat seat on a long-haul flight might be worth it for many customers.
Why Delta is making the change
Delta says the new fare options give customers more choice by allowing them to decide which benefits they want to pay for.
Delta’s lounges have gotten a notorious reputation for being overcrowded in recent years, so the new fares also offer a way for the airline to lighten the number of passengers jockeying for access.
The strategy also gives the airline another way to price premium cabins. Rather than offering a single business or first class fare, Delta can offer a lower entry price for those just interested in the seat while charging more for additional flexibility and premium services.
Other airlines have also expanded fare options in recent years, reflecting a broader shift across the industry toward selling different levels of service within the same cabin.
Is a Basic premium fare worth it?
The answer depends on how you travel.
For passengers who primarily want a lie-flat seat on a long-haul flight or a larger seat in domestic first class, the lower-priced fare may offer a good value.
Travelers who want lounge access, flexible ticket changes, advance seat selection, or higher loyalty program earnings may find that a Classic or Extra fare better fits their needs.
Basic fares offer more options, but before you blindly book the lowest fare, it’s worth checking exactly what’s included and whether the savings outweigh the benefits you’ll give up.
The new “Basic” fares are available to book now for travel beginning in September.