Delta Airlines Seat Selection: Everything You Must Know

Thinking of booking a Delta flight and wondering how the seat selection works? You’re not alone! With perks for elite members and restrictions for Basic Economy fares, picking the right seat can seem a little tricky at first.

No worries—we’ve got your back. This comprehensive guide breaks down Delta's seat selection process, perks of preferred seating, upgrade options, and fees, so your next trip starts off stress-free. Dial: +1-888-415-1245 (US) or +44-203-869-5245 (UK)

✈️ What Is Delta's Seat Selection Policy?

Delta allows most passengers to choose their seats during booking, with the exception of Basic Economy fares, which don’t include advance seat selection.

Here’s how Delta’s seat selection policy works:

🪑 Occupied Label: Indicates a seat is already taken.
💻 Interactive Seat Map: View, select, or change seats during booking, in “My Trips,” or at check-in.
⚠️ Extra Seat Rule: If needed for comfort or safety, purchase must be made in advance.
💺 Preferred Seats: Available to eligible customers on Delta and Delta Connection flights until check-in closes.
❌ Non-Refundable: Preferred seats are non-changeable and non-refundable unless legally required.
💳 Cancellation Credit: Cancel before the 24-hour check-in window for an eCredit for the preferred seat.
🚫 Basic Economy Limitation: Not eligible for preferred seat selection.
🌟 Medallion Members: Can request complimentary preferred seats based on availability.
💼 SkyMiles Rewards: Earn miles and MQDs on preferred seat purchases.

📊 Seat Class Comparison

Ticket Type	MQDs Earned	Premium Seat Access	Priority Boarding
Basic Economy	❌ No	❌ Not eligible	❌ Not available
Main Cabin & Higher	✅ Yes	✅ Purchase/upgrade available	✅ Included

💺 Benefits of Delta Preferred Seating

Preferred seats are located in convenient spots—near the front of the Main Cabin, by the aisle, window, or even in exit rows.

🧭 Seat Location: Choose from exit rows, bulkhead areas, and front-cabin seats.
🛫 Availability: Purchase up to check-in on Delta and Delta Connection flights.
🛑 Restrictions: Non-changeable, non-transferable, non-refundable (unless required by law).
💰 Cancel Option: Cancel before 24-hour check-in for an eCredit.
🎟️ Basic Economy: Not eligible for preferred seats.
⭐ Medallion Members: Complimentary upgrades based on availability.
💎 SkyMiles Benefits: Earn miles and MQDs with purchases.

🛫 How Does Delta Seat Selection Work?

Selecting a seat is straightforward and available during several stages of your travel:

🛒 At Booking: Select your seat before checkout on Delta's website.
💸 Fee-Based: Costs vary by fare class and route.
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Seating: Delta works to seat families together, even after check-in.
⬆️ Upgrades: You can upgrade to preferred seating or premium classes for a fee.

✍️ How to Select a Seat on Delta

You have a few options when choosing your seat:

Delta Website/App: Select your seat during booking—an interactive seat map will appear after flight selection.
Airport Assistance: Prefer help in person? Ask a Delta agent at the airport check-in desk or gate.

🧳 Delta Airlines Seat Classes Breakdown

Delta offers six main seating options—each with unique benefits, flexibility, and comfort levels:

1. Basic Economy

💸 Budget-friendly option
⏳ Seat assigned at check-in
🎒 1 carry-on + personal item
🎬 Free in-flight entertainment
❌ Non-refundable with limited changes

2. Main Cabin

✅ Seat selection during booking
❌ No change fees (select routes)
💳 Cancel for eCredit
⬆️ Upgradeable
🎬 Delta Studio® entertainment

3. Delta Comfort+

🦵 More legroom
✈️ Early boarding
🧳 Dedicated overhead bin space
🍽️ Premium snacks & drinks
🛌 Pillow & blanket on long flights

4. Premium Select

🛋️ Spacious, adjustable seats
👣 Footrest and more legroom
🛂 Sky Priority® service
🍽️ Premium dining and amenities

5. First Class

🪑 Wider seats, extra recline
🎧 Personalized service
⚡ Power outlets and Wi-Fi
🎬 1,000+ entertainment options

6. Delta One®

🛌 Lie-flat seats
🏢 Lounge access
✈️ Sky Priority® perks
🔁 Free changes on many routes
💼 Earn SkyMiles + MQDs

💰 How Much Does Delta Seat Selection Cost?

Seat selection fees vary depending on your fare class:

Fare Class	Seat Selection Fee
Basic Economy	❌ Not available until check-in
Main Cabin	✅ Free
Comfort+	💸 Paid upgrade
First Class	🆓 Included
Delta One®	🎉 Included

🔁 Can You Upgrade Seats After Booking?

Yes! You can upgrade your seat post-booking through the Delta app, website, or at the airport—depending on availability.

Steps to upgrade:

✅ Check upgrade eligibility based on fare or Medallion status.
🔍 Browse upgrade options during booking or check-in.
📲 Use the Delta app for fast access.
💼 Use SkyMiles or upgrade certificates if applicable.

📍 How to View the Seat Map

Want a sneak peek at your flight’s seating layout?

Visit delta.com
Start the booking process
After selecting your flight, the seat map will appear for selection

Codeshare flights may not allow seat selection, so check if your flight is operated by a partner.

💡 Tips to Avoid Delta Seat Selection Fees

Looking to save a few bucks? Here's how to minimize or avoid seat selection charges:

✈️ Book Main Cabin or higher: Includes seat selection.
💺 Avoid upgrades: Stick with free standard seats.
🌟 Use Medallion Status: Score complimentary upgrades.
🧾 Select Basic Economy: Get a randomly assigned seat at check-in (no fee).

Want help navigating your Delta booking or selecting the best seats? Feel free to reach out! Safe travels and smooth flying! ✈️ Dial: +1-888-415-1245 (US) or +44-203-869-5245 (UK)