I did a search and couldn't really find an answer.

The SkyTeam site mentions preferred seating is avilable to Elite and Elite+ members. As GM on DL I fall into the Elite.

I try to remain loyal to DL but as the year gets closer to an end and I start building trips it seems that NW and CO are offering more economical fares. I'd actually like to try CO since I haven't flown them in a while but would like to take advantage of the "preferred seating". I know it is not a big deal but if I can swing an exit row or something towards the front I'd like to get it. Afterall, according to the Skyteam site orefeerd seating is a benefit for Elites!

It is easy to book a res on nwa.com or co.com but how do I get access to the preferred seating?

Thanks!

You need to call CO/NW and have them update your FF number to the DL one and then get them to assign you a seat. Not perfect, but better than sitting in the back near the lav.

Both nwa.com and continental.com allow you to input your Skymiles number. They should also recognize that you're elite and allow you to pick "preferred" seating. If you have trouble, call, but this isn't some technologically backward situation (like delta.com, which doesn't even let NW/CO members put in their numbers).

Note that on CO exit rows are technically reserved for Plat Elites (although if you call, they'll often let any elite have them). And continental.com has been having some trouble with "preferred seating" since the site upgrade last week.

In my experience nwa.com's system doesn't always immediately reflect ElitePlus status with a Delta Platinum card number entered into a booking there; however, it usually reflects such status by no later than a few hours after booking and requires no further prompting by me.

Just FYI, if you are ever flying on KE, KE's system shows your Elite tier status to the agent. It doesn't open up special seating assignments, but the agents generally make extra effort for the ST Elites/Elite+ members for better seating.

For one, if I can't get them one of the "preferred seats" I talk to my control agent (who has total control of A/C seating assignments) and place the pax on a priority reseating list.

If you're top tier in SkyTeam, CO should let you have an exit and/or bulkhead row. FWIW, if you get a bulkhead, I have noted that elites in seats on the right, DEF or higher, don't get bumped as often for special need travelers. If you can get it, IMO, the exit row is best.

One other shortfall of being a DL FF on CO is that you won't upgrade to FC. I read a thread on the DL forum that this situation may change later this year--I hope so!