Delta Stops Upgrades to Comfort+ Middle Seats
Joe Cortez December 11, 2019
Flyers who used to dread getting an upgrade from economy to Comfort+ aboard Delta Air Lines flights no longer have to fear the computer. As reported by Travel Pulse, the airline is doing away with “any seat available” upgrades, making all future moves either aisle or window moves.
Changing the Upgrade Process
Previously, Delta SkyMiles Medallion elites would be allowed to upgrade from a standard economy ticket to Comfort+ if space allowed. However, those elites would not be allowed to choose their seat – meaning they could be stuck in-between two strangers uncomfortably in the middle seat.
After a year of testing, Delta is no longer allowing upgrades to the middle seat. Citing another blog, the Atlanta-based carrier is now allowing Medallion elites to select what type of upgrade they would like to receive. If the upgrade is available, they can then move from their assigned seat in regular economy to one with additional legroom in Comfort+.
“Following nearly a year of testing, Delta is launching the ability for all Medallion Members to choose their seat preferences on a flight-by-flight basis for complimentary upgrades to Delta Comfort+” the airline said in a statement quoted by Travel Pulse. “Ultimately resulting in a better upgrade experience for this loyal group of customers.”
How the New Upgrades Work
Under the new process, flyers can request an upgrade prior to travel, and note which kind of seat they would like: window, aisle, or middle. If no seats are available, the upgrade will not be fulfilled, allowing travelers to have the luxury of not forcing a “second choice” for their seating arrangements. But if one is available, they can elect to move up seamlessly and get a new seat assignment quickly and without hassle.
The move is the latest by Delta to encourage flyers to engage with their loyalty program. Earlier in 2019, the airline launched its “SkyMiles Select” membership, offering free drinks and overhead bin access to flyers willing to pay $59 per year.
Why even upgrade, they should let the flyers upgrade on their own to any available seat in +, after a reasonable period but much earlier than check in.. I like the UA approach, choose eco+ if available or else just sit in eco or wait near upon check in to get a better eco+ seat.
“When are you going to hire professional writers, or at least a decent copy editor?” A bit harsh, don’t you think?
Gold medallion here... upgraded to a middle Comfort+ seat on a return flight today, December 11, no option to decline or select my preference. Does this only apply to new flights booked after this date? There’s no customization option in my SkyMiles profile, either.
"Flyers who used to dread getting an upgrade from economy to Comfort+ aboard Delta Air Lines flights..." Fliers don't dread getting an upgrade, they dread getting a middle seat. When are you going to hire professional writers, or at least a decent copy editor?