Dec 4, 2015, 7:08 am
Last edit by: Bowgie
Delta Comfort+ FAQs
Delta Comfort+ - A New Domestic Branded Fare Product
Summary (effective November 14, 2015, for travel on or after May 16, 2016, in the U.S.50 and Canada):
No selecting C+ seats at time of booking. Eligible pax must request a C+ upgrade by checking the box in the UPGRADE REQUEST section or calling Delta. If upgrade inventory is available, DM and PM may clear after booking. If upgrade inventory is not available, you will remain in your C- seat until such time that DL either releases inventory, or it goes to the airport for gate upgrade.
GM and FO window remains the same at T-72 and T-24 hrs respectively.
Upgrades may automatically place you in any C+ seat, including middle.
F and C+ are separate checkboxes, so you can request an F upgrade without requesting a C+ upgrade. "Double upgrades" from Y to C+ followed by C+ to F are possible.
In your My Delta Preferences page there is a new box where you can choose the default setting for 1st class upgrades and C+ upgrade preferences.
Pax with a companion will be ranked for a C+ upgrade according to the highest level... ie a DM + general member companion in the same PNR will clear after booking..
Maximum of 1 companion may request a C+ upgrade. Per DL FAQ: "If you have three or more passengers in your reservation, all passengers in the reservation must have Medallion status in order for any passengers to be eligible for Delta Comfort+."
Amex Companion Cert flyers are eligible for C+ upgrades.
To "downgrade" to C- seats (exit, other preferred seats) you must call Delta.
Complimentary upgrades to C+, once on board the aircraft, are not allowed regardless of status.
C+ currently not available with corporate discounts, because C+ currently uses ticket designator /WCOM and corporate discounts also use ticket designators. A fare code can only have one ticket designator. This limitation is apparently temporary.
So far Delta is saying this does not impact upgrades to F.
Delta Comfort+ - A New Domestic Branded Fare Product
Summary (effective November 14, 2015, for travel on or after May 16, 2016, in the U.S.50 and Canada):
No selecting C+ seats at time of booking. Eligible pax must request a C+ upgrade by checking the box in the UPGRADE REQUEST section or calling Delta. If upgrade inventory is available, DM and PM may clear after booking. If upgrade inventory is not available, you will remain in your C- seat until such time that DL either releases inventory, or it goes to the airport for gate upgrade.
GM and FO window remains the same at T-72 and T-24 hrs respectively.
Upgrades may automatically place you in any C+ seat, including middle.
F and C+ are separate checkboxes, so you can request an F upgrade without requesting a C+ upgrade. "Double upgrades" from Y to C+ followed by C+ to F are possible.
In your My Delta Preferences page there is a new box where you can choose the default setting for 1st class upgrades and C+ upgrade preferences.
Pax with a companion will be ranked for a C+ upgrade according to the highest level... ie a DM + general member companion in the same PNR will clear after booking..
Maximum of 1 companion may request a C+ upgrade. Per DL FAQ: "If you have three or more passengers in your reservation, all passengers in the reservation must have Medallion status in order for any passengers to be eligible for Delta Comfort+."
Amex Companion Cert flyers are eligible for C+ upgrades.
To "downgrade" to C- seats (exit, other preferred seats) you must call Delta.
Complimentary upgrades to C+, once on board the aircraft, are not allowed regardless of status.
C+ currently not available with corporate discounts, because C+ currently uses ticket designator /WCOM and corporate discounts also use ticket designators. A fare code can only have one ticket designator. This limitation is apparently temporary.
So far Delta is saying this does not impact upgrades to F.
I have two separate flights on May 16, on two separate itineraries. As a PL, I was able to choose C+ seats shortly after booking months ago, by going through the new rigamarole... Today I was notified of upgrades to F on both itineraries, at the upgrade window. So for those who were wondering if a "double upgrade" can happen, yes, it can.
Delta Comfort for flights on/after May 16, 2016
Nov 14, 2015, 6:57 pm
#467
A FlyerTalk Posting Legend
Join Date: Sep 2009
Location: Minneapolis: DL DM charter 2.3MM
Programs: A3*Gold, SPG Plat, HyattDiamond, MarriottPP, LHW exAccess, ICI, Raffles Amb, NW PE MM, TWA Gold MM
Posts: 100,417
https://pro.delta.com/content/deltap...-product-.html
It is an architectural limitation of industry fare publishing standards that only ONE ticket designator can be applied to a fare. This means that, in its initial implementation, "Comfort+ as a Fare Product" is not compatible with corporate discounts, which are applied as a ticket designator to fares.
It is an architectural limitation of industry fare publishing standards that only ONE ticket designator can be applied to a fare. This means that, in its initial implementation, "Comfort+ as a Fare Product" is not compatible with corporate discounts, which are applied as a ticket designator to fares.
Nov 14, 2015, 7:00 pm
#468
Suspended
Join Date: Jun 2009
Programs: Delta skymiles DM + 1MM
Posts: 8,144
I just got off the phone with the DM line and there has to be the appropriate inventory available to get W, even as a DM/PM. If there is enough inventory available, then the DM/PM will get it at that time. It could be at the time of booking or it could be at any time after that. If there is at least two seats available, then the DM/PM plus the one companion on the same PNR will get upgraded. Again, that could be either at time of booking or any time thereafter that inventory becomes available.
The agent I spoke also mentioned that DL does plan on changing W into a separate cabin similar to W on Air France. He also said that when they changed the benefit on golds and silvers, they noticed a trend that golds and silvers liked comfort plus so much that they started buying it at time of booking. That is what Delta hopes will happen with Diamonds and Plats.
Anyway, I am firing off my letter of complaint now to DL. I can't say for certain if this will cause me to leave as the thing I enjoy the most from Delta is the best in class on time percentage, barely any cancellations and amazing customer service.
Also, anyone else notice that its extremely difficult to apply a GUC at time of booking on an international flight? People are also buying D1/J fares at record pace.
Bottom line and to summarize, Delta cares most about profit. That's what drives Wall St. after all. Delta does not care about loyalty, whether or not a DM/PM gets a W seat complimentary on JFK-LAX or about the lack of OP inventory. Its all about the profit. Stop flying Delta and they will change this. Writing in wont be good enough.
The agent I spoke also mentioned that DL does plan on changing W into a separate cabin similar to W on Air France. He also said that when they changed the benefit on golds and silvers, they noticed a trend that golds and silvers liked comfort plus so much that they started buying it at time of booking. That is what Delta hopes will happen with Diamonds and Plats.
Anyway, I am firing off my letter of complaint now to DL. I can't say for certain if this will cause me to leave as the thing I enjoy the most from Delta is the best in class on time percentage, barely any cancellations and amazing customer service.
Also, anyone else notice that its extremely difficult to apply a GUC at time of booking on an international flight? People are also buying D1/J fares at record pace.
Bottom line and to summarize, Delta cares most about profit. That's what drives Wall St. after all. Delta does not care about loyalty, whether or not a DM/PM gets a W seat complimentary on JFK-LAX or about the lack of OP inventory. Its all about the profit. Stop flying Delta and they will change this. Writing in wont be good enough.
Nov 14, 2015, 7:01 pm
#469
Join Date: Jun 2011
Location: USA
Posts: 1,400
Crazy. As far as Delta Diamonds are concerned, VIrgin Atlantic treats us better in the economy cabin. With them, we can pick extra legroom seats for free at time of booking.
I can understand many of the changes Delta has instituted over the last couple of years but this one truly has me perplexed.
In addition, this all seems to be a fairly complex dance. Multiple elite levels chasing multiple upgrade levels with different requirements for such. And then what remains get handed to the poor gate agent. Yikes!
I can understand many of the changes Delta has instituted over the last couple of years but this one truly has me perplexed.
In addition, this all seems to be a fairly complex dance. Multiple elite levels chasing multiple upgrade levels with different requirements for such. And then what remains get handed to the poor gate agent. Yikes!
Last edited by emrdoc; Nov 14, 2015 at 7:09 pm
Nov 14, 2015, 7:01 pm
#470
Join Date: Jul 2006
Programs: DL DM/MM
Posts: 2,277
Nov 14, 2015, 7:03 pm
#471
A FlyerTalk Posting Legend
Join Date: Sep 2009
Location: Minneapolis: DL DM charter 2.3MM
Programs: A3*Gold, SPG Plat, HyattDiamond, MarriottPP, LHW exAccess, ICI, Raffles Amb, NW PE MM, TWA Gold MM
Posts: 100,417
Crazy. As far as Delta Diamonds are concerned, VIrgin Atlantic treats us better in the economy cabin. With them, we can pick extra legroom seats for free at time of booking.
I can understand many of the changes Delta has instituted over the last couple of years but this one truly has me perplexed.
I can understand many of the changes Delta has instituted over the last couple of years but this one truly has me perplexed.
It's Ground Hog Day.
Nov 14, 2015, 7:05 pm
#472
Join Date: Oct 2009
Location: FLL / BKK
Posts: 703
There are 27 airlines offering REAL premium products.
http://www.seatguru.com/charts/premium_economy.php
Some outliers on the list but seat widths range from 17" - 21" and pitch ranges from 34" - 46". The tighter 17" seats are Delta style premium (slide the seat back). In a typical premium set up, there is 1 less seat wide in the premium section than in Y. One of my favorites (EVA Air) offers 38" pitch and 19.5" width on their new 777-300's. Nice seats for a long ride.
Sliding the seats back a few inches without adding width does not qualify as a premium product. It is amazing that they are trying to market this as such. Adding to it is the complete lack of service in C+ compared to Y.
http://www.seatguru.com/charts/premium_economy.php
Some outliers on the list but seat widths range from 17" - 21" and pitch ranges from 34" - 46". The tighter 17" seats are Delta style premium (slide the seat back). In a typical premium set up, there is 1 less seat wide in the premium section than in Y. One of my favorites (EVA Air) offers 38" pitch and 19.5" width on their new 777-300's. Nice seats for a long ride.
Sliding the seats back a few inches without adding width does not qualify as a premium product. It is amazing that they are trying to market this as such. Adding to it is the complete lack of service in C+ compared to Y.
Nov 14, 2015, 7:07 pm
#473
Join Date: Jan 2014
Posts: 38
I just sent this to Delta. I've been a PM+PL Amex for 7 years. Not anymore.
I've been loyal to Delta for years now. I've booked flights on Delta and Delta partners (AF/KL) even though the fare was more.
I will no longer be doing that. I'll also be canceling my Delta Platinum Amex card at renewal time.
Why? Your recent changes to C+. In particular, the inability to a) confirm seats at booking for Diamonds and Platinums, and b) the companion policy. It's insane that I can't get even one companion, regardless of status, at time of booking.
The pre-safety video says you always have my back. Please tell me exactly how that's the case after these changes.
I will no longer be doing that. I'll also be canceling my Delta Platinum Amex card at renewal time.
Why? Your recent changes to C+. In particular, the inability to a) confirm seats at booking for Diamonds and Platinums, and b) the companion policy. It's insane that I can't get even one companion, regardless of status, at time of booking.
The pre-safety video says you always have my back. Please tell me exactly how that's the case after these changes.
Nov 14, 2015, 7:22 pm
#474
Join Date: Jan 2015
Programs: delta dm
Posts: 1,677
Nov 14, 2015, 7:24 pm
#475
Suspended
Join Date: Jun 2009
Programs: Delta skymiles DM + 1MM
Posts: 8,144
There are 27 airlines offering REAL premium products.
http://www.seatguru.com/charts/premium_economy.php
Some outliers on the list but seat widths range from 17" - 21" and pitch ranges from 34" - 46". The tighter 17" seats are Delta style premium (slide the seat back). In a typical premium set up, there is 1 less seat wide in the premium section than in Y. One of my favorites (EVA Air) offers 38" pitch and 19.5" width on their new 777-300's. Nice seats for a long ride.
Sliding the seats back a few inches without adding width does not qualify as a premium product. It is amazing that they are trying to market this as such. Adding to it is the complete lack of service in C+ compared to Y.
http://www.seatguru.com/charts/premium_economy.php
Some outliers on the list but seat widths range from 17" - 21" and pitch ranges from 34" - 46". The tighter 17" seats are Delta style premium (slide the seat back). In a typical premium set up, there is 1 less seat wide in the premium section than in Y. One of my favorites (EVA Air) offers 38" pitch and 19.5" width on their new 777-300's. Nice seats for a long ride.
Sliding the seats back a few inches without adding width does not qualify as a premium product. It is amazing that they are trying to market this as such. Adding to it is the complete lack of service in C+ compared to Y.
Nov 14, 2015, 7:24 pm
#476
Join Date: Jun 2011
Location: USA
Posts: 1,400
I just used the Delta website to price out multiple ATL - LHR flights for this summer and early fall. The price difference between Delta economy with a C+ upgrade fee compared to Virgin true Premium Economy was in the $300 to $500 range per passenger.
Hmm, which should I buy?
Nov 14, 2015, 7:25 pm
#477
Join Date: Mar 2014
Location: SoCal
Programs: DL PM, HH Gold, Hyatt Globalist
Posts: 132
Thankfully (more for Delta) my vacation will be before these changes.
Nov 14, 2015, 7:30 pm
#478
Join Date: Jul 2006
Programs: DL DM/MM
Posts: 2,277
Couldn't they find a way to allow ONE companion to a C+ at time of booking for PM/DM? Did they have to take the only real benefit our spouses see to all of our travelling. I do agree with the 8 companions, but one seems reasonable
Thankfully (more for Delta) my vacation will be before these changes.
Thankfully (more for Delta) my vacation will be before these changes.
Nov 14, 2015, 7:36 pm
#479
Join Date: Sep 2015
Location: IND
Programs: DL DM, Marriott PE
Posts: 353
No problem believing that you were told that, but it directly contradicts the FAQ on delta.com (unless the companion is also PM/DM). Having a companion takes your upgrade window to the one for the lower status.
Nov 14, 2015, 7:43 pm
#480
Join Date: Apr 2002
Location: NYC, HNL
Programs: AA 2MM LT PLT, DL PM, BA Gold, UA Gold, Bonvoy LT PLT
Posts: 669
However, if it truly is a ticket change (with the change fee waived) then would the prevailing C+ fare apply at the time one wants to re-issue the ticket even if the fare has increased?
For example,
Purchase ticket 60 days before departure in Economy
Economy = $300
Comfort+ = $400 at the time of booking.
Now, 45 days later (15 days before deapture) I see C+ filling up and I want to change my ticket from Economy to C+. The prevailing fare for the same flight now is:
Economy = $500
Comfort+ = $600
If it is a ticket change to buy-up to C+, then I would guess and speculate, if it is truly a ticket change, that you cannot simply ask for the $100 buy-up to C+, but instead you would have to pay an extra $300 ($600 total) to confirm C+ at 15 days before departure because that is the prevailing price at the time you want to change your ticket to C+.
I hope that I am wrong, but this is a possibility.
Last edited by TWAforever; Nov 14, 2015 at 7:49 pm