Dec 19, 2014, 1:01 pm
Last edit by: audidudi
LHR is a big place and terminals are not connected airside. Airside transfers are done by bus. Landside transfers can be made via the free Heathrow Connect train to T1/2/3. To get from T4 to T5, you can either take train and transfer at T1/2/3 or, depending on timing, use the local bus (free) from T4 to T5.
All Delta Flights depart from London Heathrow Terminal 3:
Check in for DL flights departing LHR T3 is in the same area of the terminal used by VS. This is the southside of the T3 check in area - if looking straight on at the building, go to the left. Business, DM, and PM can use the Upper Class Check in area.
Boston:
DL 58: BOS-LHR...A332.
DL 59: LHR-BOS...A332 (Arrives at Terminal E).
New York:
DL 401: JFK-LHR...A332.
DL 402: JFK-LHR...A332.
DL 403: JFK-LHR...A332.
DL1: LHR-JFK...A332.
DL2: LHR-JFK...A332.
DL3: LHR-JFK...A332.
Atlanta:
DL 30: ATL-LHR...A332.
DL 32: ATL-LHR...A333.
DL 31: LHR-ATL...A332.
DL 33: LHR-ATL...A333.
Detroit:
DL 16: DTW-LHR...A332.
DL 18: DTW-LHR...B763.
DL 17: LHR-DTW...A332.
DL 19: LHR-DTW...B763.
Minneapolis:
DL 10: MSP-LHR...B763.
DL 11: LHR-MSP...B763.
Philadelphia: No longer operates.
DL 194: PHL-LHR...75W.
DL 195: LHR-PHL...75W.
Seattle: Now operated by VS.
DL 4349: SEA-LHR...B789.
DL 4348: LHR-SEA...B789.
Some notes on seats: I have not discussed extensively, as it has been covered ad nauseam on the forum.
Comfort+ - LINK
764:
The J the configuration is 1-2-1. If traveling with a companion, the two middle seats work well, as they're next to each other. With the window seats, the seat console is between the passenger and the aisle on the odd seats, minimizing being bumped by someone in the aisle. Some people do not like the forward seats (1-3) due to galley noise while others like these seats for their privacy.
For Y seats, row 30 (exit row) has tons of space. Comfort+ are rows 15-18. Row 15 is the bulkhead C+ seat - opinions vary, but the legroom here is not as good as on the 763. Refer to the C+ FAQ for pictures.
763:
The 763s on this route are the modified a/c with lie flat J seats. The rows with C+ on the 76Ws typically used on LHR flights are 16-21.
DL Forum 763 Mod Tracking (lots of info on seats) - LINK
Beginning in spring 2018, many of Delta's B767 flights to London were switched to A330s instead, which is generally thought to be a more comfortable aircraft type, especially in business class.
Want to see London on approach to LHR?
If you want the chance to get a good look at London when landing @ LHR (assuming the weather cooperates), sit on the right side of the a/c. If winds dictate landing patterns over the city, you'll see it from this side. Pics from one of my landings.
Immigration & Baggage Collection @ LHR
The FA's will provide a landing card for those with non EU/EEA passports. If you're staying in the UK, you'll need the address (hotel, residence, etc.) for your landing card. Passport control will request the landing card and your passport.
Upon deplaning, you will head to the UK Border Agency (UKBA) checkpoint if remaining in the UK or follow the purple "flight connections" signage if you have an onward flight from any LHR terminal.
If you are connecting, refer to the Heathrow website for details on other terminals and specific flight connections.
When flying BE, the FA's hand out FastTrack passes, which often speed the process of entering the UK, the immigration queues can take a while.
**Also, be sure to have a copy of your itinerary with you as border agents sometimes ask for evidence of your planned departure from the UK.
Baggage:
After clearing passport control, pax head downstairs to collect their baggage (T3 or T4). LHR baggage is generally pretty good and the priority tags work most of the time^. There are cash machines, vending machines, and restrooms in the baggage hall.
Upon collecting baggage, pax pass through customs and then enter the arrivals hall. Booked taxi courier drivers are often waiting across from the exit doors.
Baggage storage is also available outside of security.
Lounges:
Arrivals @ LHR T3:
D1, DM, and PM can use the VS Revivals Lounge on the mezzanine level. Unlike with departures lounges, DM and PM are not allowed to bring a guest along to the Revivals Lounge (unless flying in D1/Upper Class).
Departures:
LHR T3: Delta One passengers, DMs, and PMs have access to the VS Clubhouse lounge. DMs and PMs may bring one guest who is traveling on the same flight. A 3rd party lounge (the "No. 1 Traveller" Lounge) is offered to GM traveling in economy or Premium Economy.
NOTE: Although the dl.com Sky Club Locations page states that Sky Club members get access to the SkyTeam lounge at LHR, I've had agents at the desk there tell me that my SC card does not matter and my ST Elite+ status is what gets me access unless flying in J.
FT Discussion:
Paid SC Member Denied Access to LHR Sky Team Lounge
Check in and security at LHR T4 (AF, KL, and other SkyTeam partners):
Check in for SkyPriority and J pax is at the desks used for SkyTeam pax.
As far as time for check in, Delta Check In Time Requirements. On that note, I have family (Medallions) who have checked in (with checked baggage) right at 60 minutes before the flight and made it through security and to the plane with a few minutes to spare.
FastTrack for the security checkpoint - The FT lane is to the left if looking at the main security queuing point. Pax flying in J can use FT. I have been able to use FT when flying in Y by showing my DM card. Not sure if it is the policy, but I last used it on March 2013 with no issue. Others have also reported success using the FT lane by showing their credentials.
NOTE: Increased security measures at LHR security checkpoints are creating delays - Email I received from DL LINK
If flying AF or KL from LHR, the latest check in time changes effective 1 Feb 2012: Changes to Latest Check-in Time at LHR on AF/KL
More discussion on London and the UK:
FT UK & Ireland Forum - LINK
UK Air Passenger Duty
DL paid ground transfer JFK-EWR/LGA on TATL flights - LINK
Delta and Virgin Atlantic (VS) Partnership:
dl.com: VIRGIN ATLANTIC PARTNERSHIP FAQS
FT thread: Delta Virgin Atlantic Partnership
NOTE: At LHR, DL and VS use T3 while other SkyTeam carriers use T4. These terminals are not connected air or landside.
VS Fare Classes:
VS fare classes do not align with DL fare classes. VS fare buckets:
Upper Class - J, C, D, I, Z, G (G is an award & upgrade fare class)
Premium Economy W, S, H, K, P
Economy Y, B, R, L, U, M, E, Q, X, V, N, O
Note that because Virgin Atlantic uses the same G fare class for both award tickets and upgrades, if using miles or GUCs to upgrade a Virgin Atlantic flight, it will be rebooked in G and may thus show up to Delta as ineligible for mileage earning with SkyMiles. This is incorrect, as upgraded tickets should earn miles based on the original coach ticket -- so if upgrading Virgin Atlantic flights, pay close attention to your SkyMiles earning and be ready to follow up with Delta to get the miles credited correctly.
dl.com - earning miles on VS (VS is a Tier 1 partner.): LINK
Medallion Benefits flying on VS (DM, PM, GM):
- Priority Check-In
- Priority Baggage Handling
- Priority Security
- Priority Boarding
- Baggage fee waiver for one additional piece up to 23kg (~50lbs)
- VS Clubhouse access with a same-day TATL flight on DL or VS (GMs: only at BOS/EWR/IAD/JFK/LAX/SFO, not LGW/LHR; PM have access at LGW, but not LHR unless in J; DM have access at LGW and LHR)
NOTE: VS J pax (and presumably Medallions) are now eligible for Fast Track security for connections, departures, and arrivals at LHR T3: LINK.
Clubhouse (Lounge) Access:
DL/VS J passengers get access to VS Clubhouse lounges at LGW/LHR and BOS/EWR/IAD/JFK/LAX/SFO with a same-day TATL flight on either DL or VS.
GM in W or Y have access to the BOS/EWR/IAD/JFK/LAX/SFO lounges but not LGW/LHR.
DM or PM in W or Y may use the LGW and LHR Clubhouse lounges as well as BOS/EWR/IAD/JFK/LAX/SFO, and may bring 1 guest traveling on the same flight with them.
DM/PM/GM in W or Y at LHR T3 have access to "No. 1 Traveller" lounge instead of, (for DMs in addition to), the VS Clubhouse.
LHR T3:
al330729's pics from the VS Clubhouse at LHR T3 - LINK
JFK:
As a DM flying JFK-LHR, I was able to use the VS Clubhouse at JFK. For pics, please see:
- Lounge - LINK
- Food - LINK
- Showers/Spa - LINK
VS Revivals (Arrivals) Lounge at LHR T3:
alee0729 had no issues accessing the VS Revivals Lounge following a DL arrival into T3. Shower pic - LINK
On Dec. 21, 2013, I stopped by the Revivals Lounge to get clarification on access for DL Medallion members. Per the agent, only pax flying Upper Class (Business) can currently access the lounge due to space issues; DL Medallion status does not = access. This may change once some DL flights start using T3 in Spring 2014.
Upgrading on VS-Operated Flights:
Virgin Atlantic Code Share Flight Questions
Using SM to Upgrade on VS
Access to Extra Leg Room Seats / Exit Rows on VS-operated Flights:
Possible Improvements to the DL-VS Relationship
All Delta Flights depart from London Heathrow Terminal 3:
Check in for DL flights departing LHR T3 is in the same area of the terminal used by VS. This is the southside of the T3 check in area - if looking straight on at the building, go to the left. Business, DM, and PM can use the Upper Class Check in area.
Boston:
DL 58: BOS-LHR...A332.
DL 59: LHR-BOS...A332 (Arrives at Terminal E).
New York:
DL 401: JFK-LHR...A332.
DL 402: JFK-LHR...A332.
DL 403: JFK-LHR...A332.
DL1: LHR-JFK...A332.
DL2: LHR-JFK...A332.
DL3: LHR-JFK...A332.
Atlanta:
DL 30: ATL-LHR...A332.
DL 32: ATL-LHR...A333.
DL 31: LHR-ATL...A332.
DL 33: LHR-ATL...A333.
Detroit:
DL 16: DTW-LHR...A332.
DL 18: DTW-LHR...B763.
DL 17: LHR-DTW...A332.
DL 19: LHR-DTW...B763.
Minneapolis:
DL 10: MSP-LHR...B763.
DL 11: LHR-MSP...B763.
Philadelphia: No longer operates.
DL 194: PHL-LHR...75W.
DL 195: LHR-PHL...75W.
Seattle: Now operated by VS.
DL 4349: SEA-LHR...B789.
DL 4348: LHR-SEA...B789.
Some notes on seats: I have not discussed extensively, as it has been covered ad nauseam on the forum.
Comfort+ - LINK
764:
The J the configuration is 1-2-1. If traveling with a companion, the two middle seats work well, as they're next to each other. With the window seats, the seat console is between the passenger and the aisle on the odd seats, minimizing being bumped by someone in the aisle. Some people do not like the forward seats (1-3) due to galley noise while others like these seats for their privacy.
For Y seats, row 30 (exit row) has tons of space. Comfort+ are rows 15-18. Row 15 is the bulkhead C+ seat - opinions vary, but the legroom here is not as good as on the 763. Refer to the C+ FAQ for pictures.
763:
The 763s on this route are the modified a/c with lie flat J seats. The rows with C+ on the 76Ws typically used on LHR flights are 16-21.
DL Forum 763 Mod Tracking (lots of info on seats) - LINK
Beginning in spring 2018, many of Delta's B767 flights to London were switched to A330s instead, which is generally thought to be a more comfortable aircraft type, especially in business class.
Want to see London on approach to LHR?
If you want the chance to get a good look at London when landing @ LHR (assuming the weather cooperates), sit on the right side of the a/c. If winds dictate landing patterns over the city, you'll see it from this side. Pics from one of my landings.
Immigration & Baggage Collection @ LHR
The FA's will provide a landing card for those with non EU/EEA passports. If you're staying in the UK, you'll need the address (hotel, residence, etc.) for your landing card. Passport control will request the landing card and your passport.
Upon deplaning, you will head to the UK Border Agency (UKBA) checkpoint if remaining in the UK or follow the purple "flight connections" signage if you have an onward flight from any LHR terminal.
If you are connecting, refer to the Heathrow website for details on other terminals and specific flight connections.
When flying BE, the FA's hand out FastTrack passes, which often speed the process of entering the UK, the immigration queues can take a while.
- T3: As you enter the immigration hall, the UK/EU desks are immediately to your left, keep going straight. The entry to the non-EU passport queue will be ahead on the left and FastTrack will be directly ahead. Keep an eye on the regular queue because it's often faster than FastTrack (more agents).
- T4: If looking at the UKBA desks, the FastTrack lane has been moved to the center of the passport control area and is in between the EU and non-EU passport queues. In the absence of a FastTrack card, I try to be prompt in getting to passport control...closer to the front, the better!
**Also, be sure to have a copy of your itinerary with you as border agents sometimes ask for evidence of your planned departure from the UK.
Baggage:
After clearing passport control, pax head downstairs to collect their baggage (T3 or T4). LHR baggage is generally pretty good and the priority tags work most of the time^. There are cash machines, vending machines, and restrooms in the baggage hall.
Upon collecting baggage, pax pass through customs and then enter the arrivals hall. Booked taxi courier drivers are often waiting across from the exit doors.
- T3: As you exit customs into the arrivals hall, follow the lane around - the ramp to the Underground and Heathrow Connect/Express will be on the left. Hotel bus shuttles (Hoppa bus) and the taxi rank are also to the left and outside.
- T4: Go to the left for the Heathrow Connect/Express trains and go to the right for Underground trains (The Underground (AKA the Tube) is the cheapest way into London via the Piccadilly Line; Heathrow Connect to Paddington with a few stops in between is in the middle; the Heathrow Express is the most expensive direct service to Paddington). Rental car and limousine desks are to the right. Rental car and hotel shuttle buses (Hotel Hoppa) are outside of the terminal - follow posted signs.
Baggage storage is also available outside of security.
- T3: Left Luggage is near the WH Smith in the arrivals hall.
- T4: Exit to the right and it is across from the escalators that go down to the Tube station.
Lounges:
Arrivals @ LHR T3:
D1, DM, and PM can use the VS Revivals Lounge on the mezzanine level. Unlike with departures lounges, DM and PM are not allowed to bring a guest along to the Revivals Lounge (unless flying in D1/Upper Class).
Departures:
LHR T3: Delta One passengers, DMs, and PMs have access to the VS Clubhouse lounge. DMs and PMs may bring one guest who is traveling on the same flight. A 3rd party lounge (the "No. 1 Traveller" Lounge) is offered to GM traveling in economy or Premium Economy.
NOTE: Although the dl.com Sky Club Locations page states that Sky Club members get access to the SkyTeam lounge at LHR, I've had agents at the desk there tell me that my SC card does not matter and my ST Elite+ status is what gets me access unless flying in J.
FT Discussion:
Paid SC Member Denied Access to LHR Sky Team Lounge
Check in and security at LHR T4 (AF, KL, and other SkyTeam partners):
Check in for SkyPriority and J pax is at the desks used for SkyTeam pax.
As far as time for check in, Delta Check In Time Requirements. On that note, I have family (Medallions) who have checked in (with checked baggage) right at 60 minutes before the flight and made it through security and to the plane with a few minutes to spare.
FastTrack for the security checkpoint - The FT lane is to the left if looking at the main security queuing point. Pax flying in J can use FT. I have been able to use FT when flying in Y by showing my DM card. Not sure if it is the policy, but I last used it on March 2013 with no issue. Others have also reported success using the FT lane by showing their credentials.
NOTE: Increased security measures at LHR security checkpoints are creating delays - Email I received from DL LINK
If flying AF or KL from LHR, the latest check in time changes effective 1 Feb 2012: Changes to Latest Check-in Time at LHR on AF/KL
More discussion on London and the UK:
FT UK & Ireland Forum - LINK
UK Air Passenger Duty
DL paid ground transfer JFK-EWR/LGA on TATL flights - LINK
Delta and Virgin Atlantic (VS) Partnership:
dl.com: VIRGIN ATLANTIC PARTNERSHIP FAQS
FT thread: Delta Virgin Atlantic Partnership
NOTE: At LHR, DL and VS use T3 while other SkyTeam carriers use T4. These terminals are not connected air or landside.
VS Fare Classes:
VS fare classes do not align with DL fare classes. VS fare buckets:
Upper Class - J, C, D, I, Z, G (G is an award & upgrade fare class)
Premium Economy W, S, H, K, P
Economy Y, B, R, L, U, M, E, Q, X, V, N, O
Note that because Virgin Atlantic uses the same G fare class for both award tickets and upgrades, if using miles or GUCs to upgrade a Virgin Atlantic flight, it will be rebooked in G and may thus show up to Delta as ineligible for mileage earning with SkyMiles. This is incorrect, as upgraded tickets should earn miles based on the original coach ticket -- so if upgrading Virgin Atlantic flights, pay close attention to your SkyMiles earning and be ready to follow up with Delta to get the miles credited correctly.
dl.com - earning miles on VS (VS is a Tier 1 partner.): LINK
Medallion Benefits flying on VS (DM, PM, GM):
- Priority Check-In
- Priority Baggage Handling
- Priority Security
- Priority Boarding
- Baggage fee waiver for one additional piece up to 23kg (~50lbs)
- VS Clubhouse access with a same-day TATL flight on DL or VS (GMs: only at BOS/EWR/IAD/JFK/LAX/SFO, not LGW/LHR; PM have access at LGW, but not LHR unless in J; DM have access at LGW and LHR)
NOTE: VS J pax (and presumably Medallions) are now eligible for Fast Track security for connections, departures, and arrivals at LHR T3: LINK.
Clubhouse (Lounge) Access:
DL/VS J passengers get access to VS Clubhouse lounges at LGW/LHR and BOS/EWR/IAD/JFK/LAX/SFO with a same-day TATL flight on either DL or VS.
GM in W or Y have access to the BOS/EWR/IAD/JFK/LAX/SFO lounges but not LGW/LHR.
DM or PM in W or Y may use the LGW and LHR Clubhouse lounges as well as BOS/EWR/IAD/JFK/LAX/SFO, and may bring 1 guest traveling on the same flight with them.
DM/PM/GM in W or Y at LHR T3 have access to "No. 1 Traveller" lounge instead of, (for DMs in addition to), the VS Clubhouse.
LHR T3:
al330729's pics from the VS Clubhouse at LHR T3 - LINK
JFK:
As a DM flying JFK-LHR, I was able to use the VS Clubhouse at JFK. For pics, please see:
- Lounge - LINK
- Food - LINK
- Showers/Spa - LINK
VS Revivals (Arrivals) Lounge at LHR T3:
alee0729 had no issues accessing the VS Revivals Lounge following a DL arrival into T3. Shower pic - LINK
On Dec. 21, 2013, I stopped by the Revivals Lounge to get clarification on access for DL Medallion members. Per the agent, only pax flying Upper Class (Business) can currently access the lounge due to space issues; DL Medallion status does not = access. This may change once some DL flights start using T3 in Spring 2014.
Upgrading on VS-Operated Flights:
Virgin Atlantic Code Share Flight Questions
Using SM to Upgrade on VS
Access to Extra Leg Room Seats / Exit Rows on VS-operated Flights:
Possible Improvements to the DL-VS Relationship
FAQ: Flying to London on DL
Feb 7, 2015, 5:26 pm
#1216
Join Date: Jul 2010
Location: Brooklyn
Programs: DL PM, Bonvoy Platinum
Posts: 827
Thanks, rwoman.
I get that T3 and T4 are separate terminals. My question is whether I'd be *allowed* in to the ST lounge in T4, as a ST Elite + member on a ST flight. I could drop my bag at T3, go to T4 for a bit, then (leaving plenty of time to go through security back at T3) leave from T3. But I don't know if security would let me in at T4, or the question re. the ST lounge.
I have plenty of time tomorrow so that part is not an issue.
I get that T3 and T4 are separate terminals. My question is whether I'd be *allowed* in to the ST lounge in T4, as a ST Elite + member on a ST flight. I could drop my bag at T3, go to T4 for a bit, then (leaving plenty of time to go through security back at T3) leave from T3. But I don't know if security would let me in at T4, or the question re. the ST lounge.
I have plenty of time tomorrow so that part is not an issue.
Feb 7, 2015, 5:54 pm
#1217
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Original Poster
Join Date: Feb 2010
Location: LHR
Programs: DL DM 2MM, BA Bronze, Various Hotels
Posts: 10,187
Thanks, rwoman.
I get that T3 and T4 are separate terminals. My question is whether I'd be *allowed* in to the ST lounge in T4, as a ST Elite + member on a ST flight. I could drop my bag at T3, go to T4 for a bit, then (leaving plenty of time to go through security back at T3) leave from T3. But I don't know if security would let me in at T4, or the question re. the ST lounge.
I have plenty of time tomorrow so that part is not an issue.
I get that T3 and T4 are separate terminals. My question is whether I'd be *allowed* in to the ST lounge in T4, as a ST Elite + member on a ST flight. I could drop my bag at T3, go to T4 for a bit, then (leaving plenty of time to go through security back at T3) leave from T3. But I don't know if security would let me in at T4, or the question re. the ST lounge.
I have plenty of time tomorrow so that part is not an issue.
While the ST lounge is nice I do not think the mere 40+ minutes of transit time between T3 and T4 landside is worth it.
If you don't like the No. 1 lounge, there are plenty of food options in T3.
Feb 8, 2015, 6:49 am
#1218
Join Date: Jul 2010
Location: Brooklyn
Programs: DL PM, Bonvoy Platinum
Posts: 827
Thanks once again, rwoman. I'm in the #1 lounge now, and can report that while it's not astonishing it's fine--much better than a domestic DL lounge, if nothing else.
The horrible irony is that I booked this specific flight so I could spend a fair amount of time at the ST lounge....
The horrible irony is that I booked this specific flight so I could spend a fair amount of time at the ST lounge....
Feb 22, 2015, 10:00 pm
#1219
Join Date: Feb 2006
Programs: DL PM
Posts: 28
I apologize if this question has been asked and answered, but I searched without finding anything.
Does anyone have experience with DL international EC and VS Extra Legroom seats?
I'm considering an LAX - LHR flight in Y. Either DL or VS flights will work schedule-wise, so I can base my choice on any feedback on seat comfort between DL and VS. Thank you.
Does anyone have experience with DL international EC and VS Extra Legroom seats?
I'm considering an LAX - LHR flight in Y. Either DL or VS flights will work schedule-wise, so I can base my choice on any feedback on seat comfort between DL and VS. Thank you.
Feb 23, 2015, 2:10 am
#1220
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Original Poster
Join Date: Feb 2010
Location: LHR
Programs: DL DM 2MM, BA Bronze, Various Hotels
Posts: 10,187
DL EC vs VS Extra Leg Room Seats
I apologize if this question has been asked and answered, but I searched without finding anything.
Does anyone have experience with DL international EC and VS Extra Legroom seats?
I'm considering an LAX - LHR flight in Y. Either DL or VS flights will work schedule-wise, so I can base my choice on any feedback on seat comfort between DL and VS. Thank you.
Does anyone have experience with DL international EC and VS Extra Legroom seats?
I'm considering an LAX - LHR flight in Y. Either DL or VS flights will work schedule-wise, so I can base my choice on any feedback on seat comfort between DL and VS. Thank you.
Feb 23, 2015, 8:10 am
#1221
Join Date: Feb 2006
Programs: DL PM
Posts: 28
Thanks, rwoman, and thanks for all of your efforts with this thread. I, and I'm sure many others, have benefited greatly.
I can't find much about the VS extra legroom seat dimensions on the VS website or on SG. The VS website indicates extra legroom seats have an extra 3" of legroom.
Between DL international EC and VS extra legroom, which do you think is more comfortable for a long international flight?
I can't find much about the VS extra legroom seat dimensions on the VS website or on SG. The VS website indicates extra legroom seats have an extra 3" of legroom.
Between DL international EC and VS extra legroom, which do you think is more comfortable for a long international flight?
Feb 23, 2015, 8:31 am
#1222
Join Date: Aug 2005
Location: Brooklyn
Programs: Delta Diamond, Bonvoy something good; sometimes other things too
Posts: 5,050
Thanks, rwoman, and thanks for all of your efforts with this thread. I, and I'm sure many others, have benefited greatly.
I can't find much about the VS extra legroom seat dimensions on the VS website or on SG. The VS website indicates extra legroom seats have an extra 3" of legroom.
Between DL international EC and VS extra legroom, which do you think is more comfortable for a long international flight?
I can't find much about the VS extra legroom seat dimensions on the VS website or on SG. The VS website indicates extra legroom seats have an extra 3" of legroom.
Between DL international EC and VS extra legroom, which do you think is more comfortable for a long international flight?
I think VS still has more traditional, non-slimline (or at least only mid-slimline) seats on most/all of their fleet, whereas Delta's new slimline seats on the 767 are not the most comfortable IMO.
I haven't flown VS coach but my understanding is they try to make it a bit more "fun" than other airlines, with a cocktail service and a few other little touches. But overall, coach food and drink is going to be just that.
One other consideration, if you are booking in advance, VS is planning to open a Clubhouse at LAX, not sure what the timeline is on that -- but if you are planning to travel before it opens you won't have lounge access at LAX at all. Though, if you fly DL, your lounge access is the SkyClub, so may not be that much more exciting. Not 100% clear but looks like you would have access to your choice of either VS or DL arrivals lounges on arrival at LHR regardless of which airline you fly. And on either airline you have access to the VS Clubhouse when departing LHR, which is very much worth a visit.
Feb 23, 2015, 8:45 am
#1223
Join Date: Feb 2006
Programs: DL PM
Posts: 28
It is not 100% clear but you may have to pay for the VS extra legroom seats, whereas you can definitely get DL EC for free as a PM. So that is a consideration.
I think VS still has more traditional, non-slimline (or at least only mid-slimline) seats on most/all of their fleet, whereas Delta's new slimline seats on the 767 are not the most comfortable IMO.
I haven't flown VS coach but my understanding is they try to make it a bit more "fun" than other airlines, with a cocktail service and a few other little touches. But overall, coach food and drink is going to be just that.
One other consideration, if you are booking in advance, VS is planning to open a Clubhouse at LAX, not sure what the timeline is on that -- but if you are planning to travel before it opens you won't have lounge access at LAX at all. Though, if you fly DL, your lounge access is the SkyClub, so may not be that much more exciting. Not 100% clear but looks like you would have access to your choice of either VS or DL arrivals lounges on arrival at LHR regardless of which airline you fly. And on either airline you have access to the VS Clubhouse when departing LHR, which is very much worth a visit.
I think VS still has more traditional, non-slimline (or at least only mid-slimline) seats on most/all of their fleet, whereas Delta's new slimline seats on the 767 are not the most comfortable IMO.
I haven't flown VS coach but my understanding is they try to make it a bit more "fun" than other airlines, with a cocktail service and a few other little touches. But overall, coach food and drink is going to be just that.
One other consideration, if you are booking in advance, VS is planning to open a Clubhouse at LAX, not sure what the timeline is on that -- but if you are planning to travel before it opens you won't have lounge access at LAX at all. Though, if you fly DL, your lounge access is the SkyClub, so may not be that much more exciting. Not 100% clear but looks like you would have access to your choice of either VS or DL arrivals lounges on arrival at LHR regardless of which airline you fly. And on either airline you have access to the VS Clubhouse when departing LHR, which is very much worth a visit.
I think you're correct that VS policy allows PM/DM to select extra legroom and exit row seats without a fee. I'll report back on that if I try VS.
Since I can select either DL EC or VS extra legroom seats for free, and I have a flexible schedule, I figured I'd see if anyone thinks one is preferable. Perhaps the new VS 789 Y extra legroom seats are better in some way?
Thanks for your help.
Feb 23, 2015, 8:58 am
#1224
Join Date: Aug 2005
Location: Brooklyn
Programs: Delta Diamond, Bonvoy something good; sometimes other things too
Posts: 5,050
Thanks for this.
I think you're correct that VS policy allows PM/DM to select extra legroom and exit row seats without a fee. I'll report back on that if I try VS.
Since I can select either DL EC or VS extra legroom seats for free, and I have a flexible schedule, I figured I'd see if anyone thinks one is preferable. Perhaps the new VS 789 Y extra legroom seats are better in some way?
Thanks for your help.
I think you're correct that VS policy allows PM/DM to select extra legroom and exit row seats without a fee. I'll report back on that if I try VS.
Since I can select either DL EC or VS extra legroom seats for free, and I have a flexible schedule, I figured I'd see if anyone thinks one is preferable. Perhaps the new VS 789 Y extra legroom seats are better in some way?
Thanks for your help.
Feb 23, 2015, 9:09 am
#1225
Join Date: Feb 2006
Programs: DL PM
Posts: 28
Feb 23, 2015, 5:03 pm
#1226
Join Date: Jan 2012
Location: NYC
Programs: Delta DM, SPG Plat 100 (LT Gold), IHG Spire, Hyatt Diamond, HH Gold, National EE, Hertz Prez Circle
Posts: 473
Thanks once again, rwoman. I'm in the #1 lounge now, and can report that while it's not astonishing it's fine--much better than a domestic DL lounge, if nothing else.
The horrible irony is that I booked this specific flight so I could spend a fair amount of time at the ST lounge....
The horrible irony is that I booked this specific flight so I could spend a fair amount of time at the ST lounge....
Mar 21, 2015, 11:28 am
#1227
Join Date: Feb 2001
Location: SEA once more (previously CDG and NRT)
Programs: Former DL DM and UA 1k, now a J class free agent (UA Gold, AS MVP Gold)
Posts: 2,450
It looks like the assignment of flights to terminals will be changing on March 29. While transiting yesterday I saw signage indicating that DL flights to four airports (I don't remember which ones) will be departing from T3, and all others will be departing from T4. Seattle (which is currently departing from T3) is not on the list of departing from T3 post-March 29. 
Mar 21, 2015, 12:10 pm
#1228
Join Date: Jan 2004
Location: Atlanta & San Francisco
Programs: DL 2MM DM & My Wife is a DL 3MM DM
Posts: 2,784
I'm on VS metal both ways between ATL and LHR later this year--330-300s. I booked these through delta.com--the flight times were best for me.
Sitting in Upper Class. Any suggestions on seating--like is there any difference between the A and K sides? If the primary focus on the outbound is sleeping, near the front, middle or back of the cabin? I think I have myself in 4K at present.
How does the T3 Arrivals Lounge compare to the Yotel setup at T4?
Any other hints or suggestions would be appreciated.
Thanks
Sitting in Upper Class. Any suggestions on seating--like is there any difference between the A and K sides? If the primary focus on the outbound is sleeping, near the front, middle or back of the cabin? I think I have myself in 4K at present.
How does the T3 Arrivals Lounge compare to the Yotel setup at T4?
Any other hints or suggestions would be appreciated.
Thanks
Last edited by atl runner; Mar 21, 2015 at 12:20 pm
Mar 21, 2015, 4:08 pm
#1229
Join Date: May 2009
Location: Boston, MA
Programs: AA Million Miler, Mosaic, Delta Platinum
Posts: 1,561
I'm on VS metal both ways between ATL and LHR later this year--330-300s. I booked these through delta.com--the flight times were best for me.
Sitting in Upper Class. Any suggestions on seating--like is there any difference between the A and K sides? If the primary focus on the outbound is sleeping, near the front, middle or back of the cabin? I think I have myself in 4K at present.
How does the T3 Arrivals Lounge compare to the Yotel setup at T4?
Any other hints or suggestions would be appreciated.
Thanks
Sitting in Upper Class. Any suggestions on seating--like is there any difference between the A and K sides? If the primary focus on the outbound is sleeping, near the front, middle or back of the cabin? I think I have myself in 4K at present.
How does the T3 Arrivals Lounge compare to the Yotel setup at T4?
Any other hints or suggestions would be appreciated.
Thanks
On that plane, on real difference between A and K. I would sit near the middle -- personally I prefer 4-5-6 K since tends to be less traffic on that aisle.
Mar 22, 2015, 9:09 am
#1230
Join Date: Jan 2004
Location: Atlanta & San Francisco
Programs: DL 2MM DM & My Wife is a DL 3MM DM
Posts: 2,784
The Arrivals Lounge is a proper arrivals lounge - showers, breakfast (good), etc. Don't think there's any place to nap like Yotel but overall a superior experience.
On that plane, on real difference between A and K. I would sit near the middle -- personally I prefer 4-5-6 K since tends to be less traffic on that aisle.
On that plane, on real difference between A and K. I would sit near the middle -- personally I prefer 4-5-6 K since tends to be less traffic on that aisle.
How would you compare the seat experience to the DAL 333 or 764?