Originally Posted by
Often1
The reason for the apparent issue is that if you OLCI, the system will assign an E-fare a seat. If you check in at the airport, the seat assignment will be at the gate.
That's not what is says in the T&C's -- "Advance seat selection is not be available for Basic Economy fares. Basic Economy seats are assigned in the Economy cabin at check-in via delta.com or at a Delta airport kiosk 24 hours prior to the flight scheduled departure time."
If there are available seats, you should be assigned one by a kiosk just like checking in on delta.com.