Delta Implements Automatic Seat Blocks; Makes it Easier to Book, Change or Cancel

Delta has made it easier for customers to book, change or cancel their travel plans. Effective 30 July:

- The airline has extended the change-fee waiver to new flights purchased through 31 August;

- Delta is offering the ability to rebook travel for up to two years for customers who purchased flights prior to 17 April 2020, that are pending travel through the end of year;

- The airline is implementing automatic seat blocks through at least 30 September, which will automatically block seats adjacent to those selected by a customer once a reservation is complete, and allow parties of three or more to book seats together, including middle seats.

- Customers who purchase U.S. domestic tickets issued on or after 30 July 2020, are now eligible for refunds upon request if their flight is canceled or delayed for 120 minutes or more (including due to schedule changes). This is an increase of 30 minutes from Delta's previous policy.

“When booking their travel, customers tell us they value more space and greater flexibility during a time of physical distancing and heightened uncertainty,” said Dwight James, S.V.P. – Pricing and Revenue Management. “We want our customers to book and travel with the peace of mind in knowing their health and safety remains Delta’s top priority, and that we’ll continue evaluating our policies to maintain the high standard of care they expect.”

A recent survey conducted by Sabre, showed that travellers value social distancing on board aircraft. Delta now automatically blocks seats adjacent to those selected by a customer once a reservation is completed. The block will be visible in the seat map once the customer revisits their booking in My Trips on delta.com or in the Fly Delta app.

And while middle seats will continue to be visibly blocked, new technology will ensure that customers in parties of three or more will also have the option to book seats, including middle seats, together. This functionality, which will be implemented across all cabins except Delta One, allows Delta to maintain its commitment to giving customers more space onboard while offering them more flexibility with their seat choices.

See also: Airports, Air Travel and COVID19 - Exclusive Interview with SITA's President of Asia Pacific, Sumesh Patel and Emerging Travel Trends in Asia Pacific - Interview with Two Senior Executives at Sabre.

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