Delta Air Lines is getting rid of Basic Economy: here's why
If you're flying Delta this fall—perhaps through its busy hub in Atlanta —you'll notice a change when booking your flight. Starting October 1 (yep, heads up if you're planning holiday travel), Delta Air Lines is scrapping its Basic Economy class—at least in name. The no-frills fare that's cheap but comes with restrictions isn't going away, but it's getting a new name as part of a rebrand of Delta's fare classes. Here's what you need to know.
Why is Delta Air Lines getting rid of Basic Economy?
According to the airline, the rebrand offers more flexibility and customization, allowing passengers to choose the experience they want.
"As we listen and learn about what our customers want when it comes to their travel, we know that clarity and choice are paramount," SVP and Chief Digital Officer Eric Phillips said in a press release. "Our reimagined shopping experience gives customers more options and flexibility to pick the travel experience that works best for them, and a full picture of all the benefits of flying with Delta."
What is replacing Delta's Basic Economy?
The airline is folding Basic Economy into a revamped Delta Main category (formerly Main Cabin), which now features three tiers: Basic, Classic and Extra. Delta Main Basic is essentially the same stripped-down experience: no seat selection until check-in and last boarding position in Zone 8. But Delta hopes the new name signals a broader, more flexible ticketing system.
Delta Main Classic comes with perks like free seat selection, no-fee cancellations and same-day standby. Go for Delta Main Extra and you'll get even more: full refundability, earlier boarding, free same-day confirmed changes and a better mileage earning rate.
Other fare categories are also getting rebranded. Comfort+ becomes Delta Comfort, First Class is now Delta First, but the in-flight experience won't change. Premium Select and Delta One keep their current names.
Delta says the overhaul is about simplifying choices and making it easier for travelers to understand what they're buying. In practice, it's a branding pivot that lets Delta soften the stigma around Basic Economy without eliminating the budget option entirely.
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