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Other Seat Information

With Basic Economy please remember refunds and upgrades are not available at any time. Basic Economy is best for those traveling by themselves with firm travel plans. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the restrictions so you know if Basic Economy is right for you.

  • No seat(s) assigned until after check-in, not together 
  • No changes allowed*
  • Cancelable for partial eCredit (cancellation charge applies)** 
  • Last to board & not eligible for upgrades 
  • No miles earned; no credit toward SkyMiles Medallion Status***

*Ticket changes or refunds not allowed after the Risk-Free Cancellation period. **Excludes tickets issued for travel originating in Mexico, which cannot be canceled or changed. For tickets issued for travel originating in Korea, tickets will be refunded to original form of payment after deducting the cancellation charge. For tickets issued for travel originating in Europe , the cancellation charge is €150. For tickets issued for travel originating in the United Kingdom , the cancellation charge is £150. For tickets issued for travel originating in Africa , Middle East and India , the cancellation charge is $180. ***Not eligible for MQM, MQS or MQD earn, paid or complimentary access or upgrades to premium seats, including to Delta Comfort+® or Preferred Seats; and no paid access to Priority Boarding.

If you are unable to sit in your seat without encroaching into the seat next to you while the armrest is down, please ask the agent if they can reseat you next to an empty seat. You might also consider purchasing an upgrade to First Class/Delta One®.

If you would like to book an additional seat in order to ensure your comfort during your travel, please click the “ Message Us ” button on the Need Help page for assistance.

Preferred Seats include:

  • Exit row seats
  • Bulkhead window and aisle seats
  • Window and aisle seats in the front of Main Cabin

These seats are available to eligible customers on Delta and Delta Connection aircraft. Preferred Seats are available for purchase up until the check-in window closes on most Delta operated flights. Keep in mind that Preferred seats are non-changeable, non-refundable and cannot be transferred to a new flight or itinerary. In the event of a cancellation, you may receive an eCredit for the value of your Preferred Seat if you cancel your flight before the 24-hour check-in window opens.*

Basic Economy: Customers who purchase Basic Economy tickets are not eligible to purchase Preferred Seats.

Medallion Members: Members are eligible for Complimentary Upgrades to Preferred Seats upon request and subject to availability.

SkyMiles Members: Earn miles, including Medallion Qualification Dollars (MQDs) toward Medallion Status with the SkyMiles Program, for Preferred Seat purchases.

*Applies to Delta-operated flights canceled prior to the 24-hour check in window only.

Using the My Trips seat map or the offers presented on the Trip Details page, you can select a seat and pay to upgrade your trip to Delta One®, Delta Premium Select, First Class or Delta Comfort+® on eligible flights within the U.S. and Canada, from the U.S. to international destinations and on most exit-international flights to the U.S. after purchasing a ticket.*

Paid upgrade seats are: 

  • Typically changeable and refundable, depending on the fare rules of the original booked ticket
  • Not eligible to be transferred to a new flight or itinerary
  • Unavailable for purchase once the check-in window for the flight has closed

If you need to cancel, you may receive an eCredit for the value of your paid upgrade if you cancel your flight before the 24-hour check-in window opens.**

In some cases, customers with Special Service Requests (SSR) on their reservation are not eligible for post-purchase upgrades such as exit row seating, to ensure they are assigned to a seat that meets the needs of their request.

*Excludes tickets booked in Basic Economy. **Applies to Delta-operated flights canceled prior to the 24-hour check in window only.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can't find the answer to your question? Check out our top seat Q&As for more information.

If you voluntarily change or cancel your flight before the 24-hour check-in window opens, you may receive an eCredit for the value of your seat purchase.* Currently, eCredits may only be applied toward future travel, but this is the first step in the direction of offering you more flexibility with eCredits in the future.

Any time after a ticket is issued until 90 minutes prior to departure or until the check-in window has closed, customers can upgrade from Main Cabin to Delta One®, Delta Premium Select, First Class or Delta Comfort+®, or from Delta Comfort+ to Delta One®, Delta Premium Select or First Class. 

Customers may use a different method of payment than the method used to purchase the original ticket. Upgrades are add-ons to your purchase and will not require a new ticket to be issued to you.

Customers can go to My Trips and look for the upgrade offers banner located at the top of their trip to purchase a Delta One, Delta Premium Select, First Class or Delta Comfort+ seat upgrade as an add-on if available.

Post-purchase upgrades are sold for individual flights and all customers in the reservation must upgrade for the selected flight. 

Currently, some Special Service Requests (SSR) are not eligible for post-purchase upgrades such as exit row seating, to ensure that customers are assigned to a seat that meets the needs of their request.

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The Delta Seat Selection Guide

Carissa Rawson

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

Table of Contents

How Delta seat selection works

Delta seat selection fee, ticket types and seat selection rules, delta air lines seats for elite members, delta plane seating chart, how to pick seats on delta, final thoughts on selecting a seat on delta air lines.

Booking a Delta Air Lines flight and wondering about Delta’s seat selection? It’s no wonder — with differing benefits for elite members and strict restrictions on basic economy tickets, figuring out how and when to choose your Delta seat can quickly become overwhelming.

Here's a look at Delta seat assignments, how Delta Air Lines’ seating system works and the costs of choosing a seat.

» Learn more: The best airline credit cards

Delta operates a variety of cabin classes on its aircraft, including economy, Premium Select, first class and Delta One seats.

Like most airlines, Delta will allow you to select your seat when booking, though the cost to do so and any upcharges will vary depending on the flight you’re taking. Those flying with families and wondering “does Delta seat families together?” are in luck. Delta does its best to seat families together, even after check-in.

» Learn more: Delta vs. United, which is best for you?

According to an analysis of airline fees by NerdWallet, Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines charge the least for seat selection, while budget airlines Frontier and Spirit charge the most.

Delta sits in the middle, charging an average of $15-plus for each flight that you'd like to select a seat for. The cost will vary depending on the type of ticket you book with the airline — which we'll discuss next.

» Learn more: How to navigate costly airline seat selection fees

How much is seat selection on Delta Air Lines? That will depend on the ticket type you’re purchasing, be it basic economy, main cabin, Premium Select (premium economy), first class or Delta One.

Basic economy

Basic economy tickets have the most restrictions of any Delta ticket, and this extends to seat selection. Those who book basic economy tickets won't be able to select seats; instead, a seat will be randomly assigned to each passenger after check-in. This includes families and groups who are traveling together — expect to be split up when booking a basic economy ticket.

If you reserve a basic economy ticket, it’s possible to purchase a specific seat starting seven days before departure. Pricing for this varies by trip and is priced by segment.

Main cabin seating, also known as regular economy, includes complimentary seat selection. As a main cabin customer, you also have the option to purchase an upgrade to preferred or Delta Comfort Plus seats while remaining an economy class passenger.

You can also book upgraded economy tickets with additional seat selection perks:

Main Cabin Preferred: Main Cabin Preferred seats are functionally the same as regular main cabin seats. The difference lies in the seat location; Main Cabin Preferred seats are typically window and aisle seats nearer to the front of the plane, plus exit rows. These are the least expensive upgrades from standard economy seating.

Comfort Plus: When available, a Delta Comfort Plus ticket can be purchased directly while booking and the price will include seat selection. The cost to upgrade is higher than for a preferred seat in main cabin. Comfort Plus features more legroom than main cabin and offers passengers dedicated overhead bins. In addition, Comfort Plus guests will receive complimentary beer and wine on all domestic and short-haul international flights.

Main cabin passengers can also choose to upgrade to a Comfort Plus seat either before or after purchasing their ticket.

Premium Select

Premium Select is Delta’s version of premium economy, with larger seats and better recline, two free checked bags, earlier boarding and premium extras. Those who book Premium Select can choose any seat within the cabin for no additional fee.

Delta One and first class

Both first class and Delta One ticket holders can choose any seat within their cabin for free. These spacious seats come with two free checked bags, premium snacks and meals, priority boarding, and a dedicated flight attendant.

GET MORE MILES, MORE BENEFITS WITH A DELTA CARD

Regardless of where you sit once you're on the plane, a Delta-branded credit card can make your trip go a little smoother. Most include free checked bags and priority boarding, and some really stack up the perks. Among options:

Delta SkyMiles® Blue American Express Card

on American Express' website

Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card

$0 intro for the first year, then $150 .

• 2 miles per dollar on purchases made directly with Delta.

• 2 miles per dollar at restaurants worldwide plus takeout and delivery in the U.S.

• 1 mile per dollar on all other eligible purchases.

• 2 miles per dollar at U.S. supermarkets.

• 3 miles per dollar on eligible purchases made directly with Delta

• 3 miles per dollar on eligible hotel purchases.

• 2 miles per dollar at restaurants plus takeout and delivery in the U.S.

1 mile per dollar on all other eligible purchases.

• 3 miles per dollar on eligible purchases made directly with Delta.

• 1 mile per dollar on other eligible purchases.

• No foreign transaction fees.

Terms apply.

• First checked bag free.

• Priority boarding.

• Companion certificate (main cabin).

• Airport lounge access.

• Companion certificate ((first class, Delta Comfort+ or main cabin).

• Credit for application fee for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry

To view rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles® Blue American Express Card , see this page . To view rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card , see this page . To view rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card , see this page . To view rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card , see this page .

Those who have joined the Delta SkyMiles program and earned Medallion elite status will receive seating benefits on their flights.

Main Cabin Preferred

When booking main cabin tickets, all four tiers of elite status members can select main cabin preferred seats for no additional charge.

» Learn more: The NerdWallet guide to earning Delta SkyMiles

Comfort Plus

Platinum and Diamond level elite members (the two highest tiers) can choose Comfort Plus seats shortly after ticketing for free. Mid-tier Gold members, meanwhile, will be able to select these seats starting 72 hours prior to departure, and low-level Silver members can pick from available Comfort Plus seats starting 24 hours before departure.

Delta elite members will also receive upgrades on select first class and Delta One flights depending on their elite status.

You can find Delta Air Lines seating without needing to book a flight. To do so, you’ll want to first search for your preferred route on Delta’s website. On the search results page, you’ll find a variety of flights from which to choose.

Each flight presents a seat map, which you can preview by selecting "Seats."

delta seat selection

Once you’ve picked "Seats," you’ll be taken to a new page that shows a live preview of your aircraft’s seats.

seat not assigned delta

You’ll also be able to view the seat map during the booking process. Once you’ve selected your flight, you’ll be taken to another page prompting you to pick a seat.

seat not assigned delta

How do I choose my seat on Delta?

During booking

The process for reserving a Delta seat is fairly simple. As we mentioned above, you’ll be able to pick seats when booking your flights on the website; Delta will automatically prompt you to do so before checkout.

You may not be able to select seats on codeshare flights, which are operated by Delta’s partners . In this case, you’ll want to go directly to the other airlines’ webpage to manage your seat selection.

After booking

If you need to choose or alter your seat after you’ve booked your flight, go to "My Trips" on the Delta homepage.

seat not assigned delta

If you’re logged in already, you’ll be able to view all the trips you have booked with Delta. You’ll find seat selection options by going down to the "Passenger Information" section.

» Learn more: 6 ways to save on Delta flights

seat not assigned delta

Delta has a variety of ticketing options available for every type of passenger. This includes the highly restrictive basic economy class ticket as well as main cabin tickets for those who prefer certainty with their seats.

Upgrading to Main Cabin Preferred and Comfort Plus seats offers better benefits for those in economy. Loyal members of Delta’s SkyMiles program can also expect to receive complimentary access to these seats and upgrades to higher classes depending on their level of status.

Photo courtesy of Delta Air Lines.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

Chase Sapphire Preferred Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

on Capital One's website

2x-5x Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day. Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options.

75,000 Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

seat not assigned delta

Airplane Tips

How To Get A Seat Assigned At The Gate When Flying Delta

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Heading to the airport and worrying about getting a good seat on your Delta flight? Even if you don’t have a seat assigned when you arrive at the gate, there are ways to increase your chances of scoring a preferred seat.

If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: Arrive early, ask the gate agent nicely about seat availability, be flexible on your seating preferences, and consider Delta’s premium seating options to guarantee a seat assignment .

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about getting a seat assigned at the Delta gate. You’ll learn tips for increasing your chances of an upgrade, how the airline prioritizes seat assignments, and what to do if you have special seating needs.

Arrive Early at the Airport

When it comes to getting a seat assigned at the gate when flying Delta, arriving early at the airport is key. By giving yourself enough time before your flight, you can increase your chances of getting the seat you desire. Here are some tips on how to make the most of your time at the airport.

Be at the Gate at Least 30 Minutes Before Boarding

One of the best ways to ensure you have a seat assigned at the gate is to be at the gate at least 30 minutes before the boarding process begins. This will give you enough time to check in, go through security, and make your way to the gate.

By arriving early, you’ll also have the opportunity to ask the gate agent about any available seats or upgrades.

According to a study conducted by Delta Airlines , passengers who arrive at the gate early are more likely to secure their preferred seat. So, if you want that extra legroom or a window seat, don’t be afraid to arrive a bit earlier than necessary.

Head Straight to the Gate Upon Arrival

Another important tip is to head straight to the gate upon arrival at the airport. Avoid getting caught up in shopping or grabbing a bite to eat before making your way to the gate. The earlier you arrive at the gate, the more likely you are to have a wider selection of available seats.

Delta Airlines recommends that passengers prioritize their time at the gate to ensure they have ample opportunity to secure a seat assignment. By heading straight to the gate, you’ll also have more time to address any concerns or special requests with the gate agent.

Politely Ask the Gate Agent About Availability

Don’t demand an upgrade.

When approaching the gate agent to inquire about seat availability, it’s essential to maintain a polite and respectful demeanor. Remember, the gate agent has the authority to assign seats based on availability and other factors.

Demanding an upgrade or acting entitled is unlikely to endear you to the gate agent and may even diminish your chances of getting a seat assigned.

Explain Your Seating Preferences

Instead of demanding an upgrade, it’s more effective to explain your seating preferences to the gate agent. For example, if you prefer an aisle seat due to convenience or a window seat for the view, politely express your preference and ask if there are any available seats that match your request.

By providing a clear and reasonable explanation, you increase your chances of the gate agent considering your seating preferences.

Ask About Options Besides Upgrades

While many travelers may automatically think about upgrades when wanting a better seat, it’s worth considering other options as well. Ask the gate agent if there are any seats with extra legroom or if they can assign you to a row with an empty seat next to it for more space.

By exploring alternative options, you may find a more suitable seat without necessarily needing an upgrade.

Remember, the gate agent’s primary goal is to ensure a smooth boarding process and accommodate passengers as best as possible. Being polite, understanding, and open to different seating options can make a positive difference in your chances of getting a seat assigned at the gate when flying with Delta.

Be Flexible on Seating Location

When it comes to getting a seat assigned at the gate when flying Delta, being flexible on seating location can greatly increase your chances of getting a seat that suits your preferences. While many passengers prefer to sit in the forward cabin, it’s important to note that this isn’t always the best option.

The forward cabin may be closer to the boarding door, but it can also be noisier due to proximity to the engines. Additionally, seats in the back of the plane often offer quicker access to the lavatories and can be less crowded.

Consider Exit Rows and Bulkheads

If you’re looking for extra legroom or prefer to have more space, consider opting for seats in the exit rows or bulkheads. These seats typically have more legroom and allow for a more comfortable flying experience.

However, it’s important to note that these seats often come with certain restrictions, such as not being able to store your personal items under the seat in front of you during takeoff and landing. Make sure to familiarize yourself with these restrictions before selecting these seats.

Accept a Middle Seat if Needed

While nobody enjoys sitting in the middle seat, sometimes it’s necessary in order to secure a seat at the gate when flying Delta. If you find yourself in this situation, try to make the best of it by selecting a seat in the middle section of the plane that offers some advantages.

For example, aim for a middle seat in an exit row or bulkhead, as these seats often come with extra legroom. Alternatively, consider choosing a seat in the middle section of the plane that is closer to the front or back, as these seats can provide a slightly better experience.

Remember, being flexible with your seating preferences can greatly increase your chances of getting a seat assigned at the gate when flying Delta. Don’t be afraid to explore different seating options and consider the advantages and disadvantages of each location. Safe travels!

Book Delta Comfort+ or First Class

When it comes to getting a seat assigned at the gate when flying Delta, one of the best ways to secure a comfortable spot is by booking Delta Comfort+ or First Class. These options offer a range of benefits and perks that can make your flying experience much more enjoyable.

Comfort+ Guarantees Extra Legroom

If you value extra legroom and enhanced comfort during your flight, Delta Comfort+ is the way to go. With this option, you can expect a few additional inches of legroom compared to the standard economy seats.

This can make a huge difference, especially on longer flights, allowing you to stretch out and relax. In addition to the extra space, Comfort+ passengers also enjoy dedicated overhead bin space, priority boarding, and complimentary premium snacks and beverages.

First Class Comes with Premium Perks

For those looking for the ultimate flying experience, First Class is the way to go. When you book a First Class seat with Delta, you can expect a host of premium perks and amenities. These include spacious seats with ample legroom, enhanced meal options, complimentary alcoholic beverages, and access to Delta Sky Clubs.

Additionally, First Class passengers enjoy priority boarding and dedicated overhead bin space, ensuring a seamless and stress-free travel experience.

Use Miles to Upgrade at the Gate

If you’re a Delta SkyMiles member, you may have the opportunity to use your miles to upgrade to a higher class at the gate. This is a great option for those who want to enjoy the comforts of Comfort+ or First Class without having to pay the full price.

Keep in mind that this option is subject to availability and is typically offered on a first-come, first-served basis. So, if you’re interested in upgrading, it’s best to arrive at the gate early and speak with a Delta representative to explore your options.

By booking Delta Comfort+ or First Class, or using your miles to upgrade at the gate, you can increase your chances of getting a seat assigned that offers extra comfort and perks. So, the next time you fly with Delta, consider these options to enhance your travel experience.

Know Delta’s Seating Policies

When it comes to getting a seat assigned at the gate when flying Delta, it’s important to understand the airline’s seating policies. Delta has specific rules and procedures in place to ensure a smooth and efficient boarding process for all passengers.

By familiarizing yourself with these policies, you can increase your chances of getting a seat that suits your preferences.

Priority Goes to Elite Fliers and Paid Upgrades

Delta gives priority seating to its elite fliers and passengers who have paid for upgrades. Elite members of Delta’s frequent flyer program, SkyMiles, are granted access to preferred seating options, including seats with extra legroom or closer proximity to the front of the aircraft.

Additionally, passengers who have purchased an upgrade to a higher class of service, such as Delta One or First Class, will also have priority when it comes to seat assignments.

It’s important to note that these priority seating options may not be available to all passengers. They are typically reserved for those who have achieved a certain level of status within Delta’s loyalty program or have paid for the upgraded service.

Seats Often Open 24 Hours Before Departure

If you haven’t been able to secure a preferred seat during the initial booking process, don’t lose hope. Delta often releases additional seats for assignment 24 hours before departure. This means that even if you were initially assigned a seat that doesn’t meet your preferences, you may have an opportunity to change it closer to your departure time.

Keep in mind that these seats are typically assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. So, if you want to improve your chances of getting a better seat, it’s recommended to check-in as early as possible, ideally online or through the Delta mobile app.

By doing so, you’ll be among the first to have access to any newly released seats.

Check-in Early for the Best Selection

When it comes to getting a seat assigned at the gate when flying Delta, checking in early can make all the difference. Delta allows passengers to check-in online or through their mobile app starting 24 hours before departure.

By taking advantage of this early check-in option, you’ll have a better chance of securing a seat that meets your preferences.

During the check-in process, you’ll have the opportunity to view the available seats and select the one that suits you best. It’s important to note that some seats may come with an additional fee, such as those with extra legroom or better views.

If you’re willing to pay for these premium seats, you’ll have even more options to choose from.

Remember, the availability of seats can vary depending on factors such as the flight’s popularity and the number of passengers who have already checked in. So, to increase your chances of getting a seat that you’re happy with, it’s best to check-in as early as possible.

By understanding Delta’s seating policies and following these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate the process of getting a seat assigned at the gate when flying with Delta. Remember to stay informed, check-in early, and be flexible with your preferences to maximize your chances of a comfortable journey.

Happy travels!

Request a Preferred Seat Due to Special Needs

When flying with Delta, passengers with special needs have the option to request a preferred seat at the gate. This is especially useful for individuals with medical issues or disabilities, as it allows them to have a more comfortable and accommodating flight experience.

Inform Agents of Medical Issues or Disabilities

If you have a medical condition or disability that requires specific seating arrangements, it’s important to inform the gate agents at the airport. They can assist you in finding a seat that meets your needs, such as an aisle seat for easier access or a seat with extra legroom for added comfort.

By communicating your requirements, Delta can make the necessary accommodations to ensure a pleasant journey.

Traveling with Infants Allows Early Boarding

For parents traveling with infants, Delta offers early boarding privileges. This allows you to board the plane ahead of other passengers, giving you ample time to settle in and get organized before takeoff.

Additionally, by boarding early, you have a better chance of securing a seat that is suitable for you and your baby’s needs, whether it’s a bulkhead seat with a bassinet or a seat near the restroom for easier diaper changes.

Unaccompanied Minors Get Priority Treatment

If you are a parent or guardian accompanying an unaccompanied minor, Delta provides priority treatment to ensure their safety and comfort. Unaccompanied minors are typically assigned seats near the front of the aircraft, allowing flight attendants to keep a close eye on them throughout the flight.

Additionally, Delta’s gate agents will assist in finding the most suitable seat for the child, taking into consideration any special requirements they may have.

By requesting a preferred seat at the gate, passengers with special needs can have a smoother flying experience with Delta. Remember to communicate your requirements to the gate agents and take advantage of the privileges offered for infants and unaccompanied minors.

Traveling should be accessible and enjoyable for everyone, and Delta strives to make that a reality.

Arriving early, kindly asking the gate agent, staying flexible, booking premium seats, understanding policies, and communicating special needs can all help in getting a Delta seat assigned at the gate.

With these tips, you can improve your chances of avoiding a dreaded middle seat and enhance your in-flight experience.

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Stephanie Lee is an avid travel writer and remote worker with a passion for mind-opening adventures that change not just where you go, but who you become. Originally from San Francisco with continual wanderlust woven into her multiethnic upbringing, Stephanie has extensively backpacked through over 50 countries across 6 continents while working flexibly online. Through vulnerable storytelling on The FYS Life, she motivates people to embrace travel as a conduit for better understanding themselves and the cultures that shape our world. An optimistic spirit who finds daily inspiration in moments of natural beauty or human connection, Stephanie currently resides in Portland, Oregon between journeys abroad.

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Travel On The Fly

What Does “Standby List” Mean on Delta Airlines? (Explained)

If you’re flying Delta Airlines, but something comes up making it so you don’t know if you’ll make your flight, don’t worry. Excluding Basic Economy passengers, for travelers flying domestically (including Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands) and needing to make changes to their flight itinerary within 24 hours of their scheduled departure, you can either fly “Standby,” or go with “Same-Day Confirmed.”

seat not assigned delta

“Flying Standby” means that If a Same-Day Confirmed flight change isn’t available, that may make you eligible to be on the waiting list to “stand by” for an open seat on a different flight.

Note that both Same-Day Confirmed and standby are only available for flights departing on the same day the short-notice change is made and that same-day standby is only offered if Same-Day Confirmed is unavailable.

The standby list is administered at the departure gate shortly before, and sometimes after boarding.  Delta elite travelers (Medallion, SkyMiles) get standby priority over other Delta travelers.

Note that flying standby does not mean you’ll get bumped, just that you’re waiting for your seat assignment.

Table of Contents

How Does the Standby List Work on Delta?

Each airline has its own policy when it comes to offering same-day itinerary changes. When you’re flying with Delta, you can get onto the Standby waiting list if you can’t get a Same-Day Confirmed flight, but the airline has its own terms and conditions to determine eligibility. Here are some things to keep in mind:

  • You cannot use Same-Day Confirmed/Standby option for international flights, only for travel within the United States (incl. Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands) on Delta and Delta Connection flights departing on the same day.  
  • Delta Basic Economy fares are not eligible for Same-Day Standby travel 
  • Delta Diamond, Platinum, and Gold Medallion Members may fly standby on any flight that departs at any time, as long as it departs on the same day as their original flight.
  • Delta Silver Medallion Members, General SkyMiles Members, and other Delta passengers have the option to fly Same-Day Standby for any flight with an earlier scheduled departure time than their original flight.
  • Same-Day/Standby changes from connecting to nonstop Delta flights are not eligible.
  • You cannot use the same-day change option for changes to your origin and/or destination airport. Changes between airports in the same city, like LaGuardia/JFK or O’Hare/Midway, are not available for Same-Day/Standby changes.
  • Delta SkyMiles members take priority over non-SkyMiles members
  • Delta Medallion members take priority over non-elite members as follows: Delta 360, Diamond Medallion, Platinum Medallion, Gold Medallion, and Silver Medallion. 
  • Full-fare passengers will take priority over those with discount fare

What Does the Flight Standby List Mean?

Flying standby on Delta or on any other airline basically means you’re on a first come, first served waiting list for an empty seat on the plane that is expected to remain unoccupied. Essentially, flights that are already booked full will not have standby lists available. Delta passengers that cannot make a short-notice (w/in 24-hour) change to their itinerary via Same-Day Confirmed will be able to get on a standby list for another eligible flight on the same day as the original flight.

Is Delta Standby “First Come, First Served”?

Yes, and no. Typically, Delta standby lists are filled on a “first come, first served” basis, though there is some prioritizing based on elite memberships and other criteria. Also, note that at times you might not get OK’ed for the standby list until boarding is already complete.

Prioritizing for Delta Same-Day/Standby changes typically go as follows:

Does Standby Mean You Have a Seat?

Standby is the waiting list you’re placed on until you are assigned your seat. Everyone who bought their ticket as Basic Economy is on the standby list until they have their seat assigned. Flying standby doesn’t mean you’ll be bumped, just that you’re waiting for your seat assignment.

Why Did I Get Placed on Standby?

Standby typically just means you don’t have a confirmed reservation for a flight, like if you needed to change flights within 24 hours of your original departure time, and a Delta Same-Day Confirmed flight was not available.

How Does Standby Work?

For Delta domestic travelers (including to Puerto Rico/U.S. Virgin Islands), who are not flying Basic Economy, you can either change your ticket to another flight on the same day as your original flight with “Same-Day Confirmed,” or you can be placed on “Standby.” Standby essentially means that no Same-Day Confirmed flight changes were available, and if you’re eligible, you can go on the standby list for another flight (also on the same day). You will not necessarily get “bumped” from your flight, you’re just waiting to have your seat assigned.

Is it Free to Fly on Standby?

Many travelers wonder if you can fly standby for free, or at least save money by flying standby. Most airlines, including Delta, only offer standby seats to passengers who have already purchased tickets.

On Delta, for Same-Day Confirmed itinerary changes, if a seat is available in your original fare class, you can make your change for a  $75 fee. If a Same-Day Confirmed seat is unavailable, you can stand by for an available seat, and if a seat does become available, you will not pay a fee.  

So, What Does “Standby List” Mean on Delta Airlines?

Delta Airlines passengers have the option for itinerary changes needed within 24 hours of their flight departure, with some limitations and eligibility conditions. As long as you’re flying domestically (including to Puerto Rico/U.S. Virgin Islands), and not flying Basic Economy, you can either change your ticket to another flight on the same day as your original flight with “Same-Day Confirmed,” or fly “Standby.”

Standby essentially means that no Same-Day Confirmed flight changes were available, and if you’re eligible, you can go on the standby list for another flight (also on the same day). Depending on your Delta Medallion membership, you may be able to schedule for a later flight than your original flight, but other eligible passengers will likely need to plan on changing to an earlier flight.

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The Points Guy

Secure a better seat: The ultimate guide to getting upgraded on Delta flights

D elta Air Lines' Medallion elite status has plenty of perks, including same-day confirmed changes, international lounge access and Choice Benefits . Still, one perk sits above all others when it comes to chasing status: the allure of a free seat upgrade.

There's nothing quite as magical as paying for one class of service and being upgraded into a superior cabin, be it premium economy, business class or first class. However, the upgrade process remains shrouded in mystery. For example, who is eligible for upgrades? When do these upgrades process?

From complimentary elite upgrades, SkyMiles upgrades and Global and Regional Upgrade Certificates to understanding the upgrade priority process, we're here to demystify it all. So, buckle up and keep reading to find out how you can snag a seat in the front of the Delta plane.

Complimentary Delta upgrades

All Delta Medallion elite members are eligible for day-of-departure unlimited complimentary upgrades to the Delta One experience on flights within the U.S., including flights to Hawaii.

While it pays to understand the intricacies below, it's worth mentioning that Delta is systematically selling more first-class tickets. Its revenue maximization models are pricing first-class tickets to encourage more people to buy them outright. Therefore, you may notice this when you view a Delta reservation and are offered a buy-up upgrade.

Unfortunately, the more first-class tickets Delta sells, the fewer are available for complimentary upgrades.

Below are the Delta products that are eligible for complimentary upgrades, including paid tickets, SkyMiles award tickets, Pay with Miles tickets and SkyMiles Companion Certificates:

  • Delta Comfort+ (typically offered on Delta-operated flights and select international flights)
  • First class (typically offered on Delta-operated domestic flights and flights to nearby destinations like the Caribbean and Central America)
  • Delta One (typically offered on long-haul international flights and certain cross-country domestic flights)

Delta's top-tier Medallions (Diamond) get preference over lower-tier Medallions, and timing is everything. Diamond and Platinum Medallion members can immediately clear from Main Cabin into Comfort+ upon booking if space is available. At the same time, Gold members must wait until 72 hours before departure to clear into Comfort+, and Silver members must wait until 24 hours before departure.

For flights with heavy passenger loads — from New York to San Francisco, for example — the Comfort+ cabin is often full when Gold and Silver Medallions are eligible to clear. However, last-minute upgrades at the gate can happen.

Related: Delta Medallion status: What it is and how to earn it

For Delta One domestic upgrades, Medallion members will clear on the day of departure following the same clearance priority hierarchy as with first-class upgrades, subject to upgrade availability.

Even if your upgrade doesn't clear in advance, you may still clear at the gate. If an upgrade is still not confirmed at your upgrade window or when you check in, your pending upgrade request will automatically be added to the airport standby list for a potential upgrade at the gate before you board. You may view your spot on the standby list in the "My Trips" section of the Delta app and at the gate information display at the airport.

Medallion members are also eligible for complimentary upgrades on Aeromexico-operated flights within Mexico and between Mexico and the U.S., Central America, the Caribbean, Colombia and Ecuador. Upgrades are available to all ticketed passengers except those seated in basic economy. Medallion members can be upgraded to Premier on Aeromexico flights but not AM Plus. Once a SkyMiles number is added to an eligible Aeromexico reservation, Medallion members will automatically be added to the upgrade list.

Complimentary upgrade hierarchy

Here's how Delta will determine your spot on the upgrade list:

  • Medallion status
  • Fare class groupings — higher-priced fares are ranked above lower-priced fares per the following order: B, M, H, Q, K, L, U, T, X and V, then SkyMiles award tickets, then Pay with Miles
  • Million Miler status
  • Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card holders
  • Delta corporate travelers (ticket must include your employer's corporate ticket designator)
  • Medallion Qualification Dollars earned in the current calendar year
  • Date and time of upgrade request

Related: Earn more SkyMiles with these current Delta Amex credit card welcome bonuses

If two members are identical at a given level, it goes down the above list until the tie is broken. For instance, if two Platinum Medallion members are traveling on K-fare tickets and one has a Delta Reserve credit card and the other does not, the card-holding passenger will be prioritized.

Diamond and Platinum Medallion members will clear first-class upgrades beginning 120 hours (or five days) before departure. Gold Medallion members will clear beginning 72 hours (three days) before departure, and Silver Medallion members will clear beginning 24 hours (one day) before departure, subject to upgrade availability.

It's also worth noting that upgrade certificates ( Regional Upgrade Certificates and Global Upgrade Certificates ) and upgrades with miles are prioritized ahead of these complimentary upgrades.

Exclusions and fine print on Delta upgrades

Unfortunately, not all tickets are eligible for complimentary upgrades — here's what's excluded:

  • Basic economy (E) fares are not eligible for paid or Medallion complimentary upgrades, regardless of Medallion or other elite status.
  • Delta Premium Select fares are not eligible for a complimentary Medallion upgrade outside of the U.S.
  • Delta One seats on flights that start or end outside of the U.S. do not qualify for a complimentary Medallion upgrade.
  • Complimentary upgrades are not available for selection by any passenger while aboard the aircraft, regardless of status or fare class.
  • Except for eligible Pay with Miles tickets and eligible award tickets, complimentary upgrades are not available on basic economy fares.
  • Companions who change their itinerary and no longer travel with the higher-tiered Medallion after the change are not eligible for a complimentary upgrade at the higher-tiered member's clearance window. If an upgrade were confirmed before the itinerary change, a reservation for a companion without Medallion status would be changed to reflect the original class of service for the new itinerary, and they would no longer be eligible for a complimentary upgrade. If the companion is a Medallion member, the reservation will be changed to reflect the original class of service. It will continue to be eligible for an upgrade at the companion's own clearance priority. If the Medallion or partner airline elite member is no longer traveling on their original reservation, the companion traveling on the original reservation will no longer be eligible for complimentary Delta Comfort+ seating. Their Delta Comfort+ seat assignment may be removed.

Improving your chances of a Delta upgrade

Beyond racing for a higher tier of Delta's Medallion status, you can better your chances of receiving a complimentary upgrade by opening a Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card or Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card . These cards also net you 15 visits per year (effective Feb. 1, 2025) to Delta's global network of Sky Club airport lounges . To earn an unlimited number of visits each year, the total eligible purchases on the card must equal $75,000 or more between Jan. 1, 2024, and Dec. 31, 2024, and each calendar year thereafter.

If possible, consider booking a corporate ticket through your employer. Also, if you're a Platinum/Diamond Medallion with free same-day change abilities, you can sniff around and change to a less popular route on your day of departure. ExpertFlyer — owned by TPG's parent company, Red Ventures — is an excellent tool for searching flights. You can use the "Flight Availability" functionality to understand how many seats remain open/unsold.

You'll often have a better shot at an upgrade if you avoid peak business travel periods. This lets you compete with fewer frequent flyers. Generally, this means avoiding flying on Sunday night, Monday morning and pretty much all day Friday if you want to sidestep top-tier business travelers.

Delta upgrade certificates

Delta offers two types of dedicated upgrade certificates, known as Global Upgrade Certificates and Regional Upgrade Certificates . The only way to get them is to earn Platinum or Diamond Medallion status and select them using your Choice Benefits .

Upgrade certificates have a higher priority than complimentary upgrades and may be requested and, subject to availability, cleared when you book your ticket. In other words, they're a hyper-exclusive and extremely powerful way to sit in the front of the plane.

GUCs, available exclusively for Diamond Medallion members, offer upgrades on both international and domestic flights with Delta, along with select flights with KLM, Air France, Virgin Atlantic, Korean Air and Aeromexico. RUCs, available for Diamond and Platinum Medallion members, offer upgrades on the same routes as complimentary upgrades, including all flights with first class and the domestic Delta One experience.

Related: The ultimate guide to Delta Choice Benefits

As a Choice Benefits selection, Diamond Medallion members may choose any of the following three options:

  • Four global upgrades
  • Eight regional upgrades
  • Two global upgrades and four regional upgrades

Platinum Medallion members may choose four regional upgrades as their single Choice Benefits selection.

So if you want one of the coveted GUCs, you'll need first to achieve Diamond status, Delta's highest published Medallion tier.

Related: Last-minute strategies for Delta Medallion elite status

Important notes about Global and Regional Upgrade Certificates

These certificates have several quirks and nuances you must know.

These certificates only offer confirmed upgrades for one cabin higher than originally purchased. Main Cabin tickets will upgrade to Premium Select on flights with a Premium Select cabin. Then, the elite member processing the upgrade will be placed on a Delta One upgrade waitlist 24 hours before departure. The good news is that there will be last-seat upgrade availability in Premium Select on international flights. Likewise, last-seat availability will be when you use your GUC to upgrade to a domestic flight, even on Delta One routes.

An RUC or GUC is for one-way travel, so you'd need to burn four to take you and a guest on a round-trip itinerary. You can apply an RUC or GUC to a paid ticket, a SkyMiles award ticket, a Pay with Miles ticket and a companion ticket. Crucially, you cannot apply an RUC or a GUC to a basic economy (E fare) ticket, regardless of your Medallion status level.

While these certificates are not fully transferable to others, Delta will allow you to apply your RUC or GUC to a guest's ticket if that person is traveling on the same flight as you. Even if you're booked on separate reservations (e.g., your company books your economy ticket, and you book your spouse's economy ticket later), you can use your upgrade certificates for both passengers.

Each GUC or RUC will expire at the end of the Medallion Year that was associated with the Choice Benefits selection. Each certificate may be used to upgrade flights operated by Delta Air Lines or Delta Connection booked in the P, A, G, W, Y, B, M, H, Q, K, L, U, T, X or V fare classes, and may also be used to upgrade on SkyMiles awards, Pay with Miles tickets and companion certificates.

Upgrading on Delta partner flights with certificates

You can also use GUCs to upgrade select partner flights. GUCs applied to Air France and Virgin Atlantic flights will only move you from economy to premium economy unless you book a premium economy ticket outright. Note that all partner upgrades must be confirmed 24 hours before departure.

These are the rules for upgrading partner-operated flights:

Upgrading KLM flights

  • Delta-marketed, KLM-operated flights: Main Cabin seats booked in Y, B, M, H, Q, K, L, U, T, X or V to Z class (business class). This is because KLM does not offer a premium economy cabin on many flights.
  • KLM-marketed, KLM-operated flights: Economy seats booked in Y, B, M, K, H, L, Q, T, N, R or V class can be upgraded to Z (business class).
  • Air France-marketed, KLM-operated flights: Economy seats booked in Y, B, M, K, H, L, Q, T, N, R or V class can be upgraded to Z class (business class).
  • For flights departing Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS), Global Upgrade Certificates must be applied prior to check-in with a KLM ticketing agent or at a KLM Crown Lounge.

Upgrading Air France flights

  • Air France-marketed, Air France-operated flights: Economy seats booked in Y, B, M, K, H, L, Q, T, N, R or V class can be upgraded to A class (premium economy) or from W, S or A class to Z class (business class).
  • KLM-marketed, Air France-operated flights: Economy seats booked in Y, B, M, K, H, L, Q, T, N, R or V class can be upgraded to A class (premium economy) or from W, S or A class to Z class (business class).
  • Delta-marketed, Air France-operated flights: Economy seats booked in Y, B, M, H, Q, K, L, U, T, X or V class can be upgraded to A class (premium economy) or from W, S or A class to Z class (business class), or from P, A or G class to Z class (business class).

Upgrading Virgin Atlantic flights

  • Delta-marketed, Virgin Atlantic-operated flights: Economy seats booked in W, S, Y, B, M, H, Q, K, L, U, T, X or V class can be upgraded to P class (premium economy), or from P, A or G class to Virgin Atlantic's G class (business class).

Upgrading Aeromexico flights

  • Delta-marketed, Aeromexico-operated flights: Economy seats booked in W, S, Y, B, M, H, Q, K, L, U, T, X or V class can be upgraded to O class (business class).

Upgrading Korean Air flights

  • Delta-marketed, Korean-operated flights: Seats booked in J class can be upgraded to Korean Air's A class, Y or B class booked can be upgraded to Z class, or if you're booked in M class, you can be upgraded to Korean Air's O class.

How to use a Delta upgrade certificate

Until recently, you had to call to apply a GUC or an RUC to a Delta-operated ticket. Now, you only have to do this for existing tickets, as new tickets can be upgraded online.

Upgrading a new Delta booking with a certificate

Delta allows you to upgrade new bookings online (but not on the Fly Delta app). You'll see the option to upgrade your ticket with a GUC or an RUC on the checkout page.

Look for the "Upgrade Certificate Request" box and select the flight you'd like to upgrade. Then, select the type of upgrade certificate you'd like to use.

The upgrade certificate will be automatically applied when you complete your booking.

Upgrading an existing Delta booking with a certificate

For existing bookings, you must dial the phone number given with your associated Medallion tier or the general hotline at 800-323-2323 and make the request. Be sure to call at least three hours before departure to apply your certificate, though 24 hours before departure is strongly recommended.

If you want to confirm an upgrade immediately, search for your flight on the Delta website. Upgrade availability is shown underneath the flight times. Make sure you're logged in to your Delta account, as upgrade availability only shows on elite accounts.

If you can avoid waitlisting, do so. Waitlist upgrades are not guaranteed to clear, and they're known to rarely clear on particular routes — such as West Coast gateways to Hawaii.

On itineraries with connections, ask the Delta agent to place upgrade priority on the leg that matters most to you. If you don't clarify this, upgrades can clear on relatively unimportant/short legs while you remain waitlisted on the long leg. The upgrade certificate is considered used if you don't prioritize the hard-to-get leg and the upgrade clears on any other leg of your itinerary.

For example, you don't want to burn a valuable GUC on a 45-minute domestic positioning leg when the leg that matters is the long-haul ride from the U.S. to Europe, Asia, Oceania, etc. Remember, there's no way to "undo" an upgrade clearing. Once it's burned, it's burned.

While upgrade requests on the waitlist can be cleared before you get to the gate, it is more likely that they will be cleared at the gate before departure. If your certificate doesn't clear, it will be automatically reissued to your account and can be used on a future flight.

Related: How not to 'waste' your Delta Regional and Global Upgrade Certificates

Delta SkyMiles mileage upgrades

While we typically recommend storing up SkyMiles until you can exchange them for a true award ticket, that's not always practical for infrequent flyers. Delta allows its passengers to upgrade their existing tickets with SkyMiles regardless of status.

You can use Delta's Upgrade with Miles feature to upgrade to Delta One, Delta Premium Select, first-class or Delta Comfort+ for eligible flights. If your reservation is eligible for an upgrade, you'll see the option to upgrade in your trip summary.

Delta typically prices mileage upgrades by placing a value of roughly 1.07 cents on each SkyMile. In other words, if Delta is charging $60 for a particular seat upgrade, it'll also allow you to part ways with roughly 5,600 SkyMiles to achieve the same upgrade. Just note that you may be able to achieve marginally higher value by booking an award ticket outright.

Buy-up upgrades can also come in handy if you're chasing elite status. You'll earn Medallion Qualification Dollars on the cash or SkyMiles you spend on an upgrade, boosting you toward the next status tier. If you use SkyMiles to upgrade, you'll earn MQDs on the award ticket based on the cash amount of the ticket purchased, excluding taxes and fees.

Related: How I used SkyMiles to upgrade my Paris flight from coach to Delta One

Bottom line

Getting upgraded for "free" is a glorious thing, and you can better your chances by climbing Delta's Medallion elite ranks and holding a Delta SkyMiles Reserve card or Delta SkyMiles Reserve Business card . You'll also be wise to choose flights that aren't during peak business travel periods, and if there's a connection involved, avoid Delta's largest hubs like Atlanta, Minneapolis, New York (LaGuardia Airport and John F. Kennedy International Airport) and Los Angeles.

Using a stash of SkyMiles to upgrade can be a great way to boost your flight experience. Still, you'll want to think carefully before using Upgrade with Miles — Delta will only allow you to extract roughly 1.07 cents per SkyMile via this method.

Upgrade certificates are the most exciting option, but you must reach Platinum or Diamond status to secure them. If you're fortunate enough to have a few in your account, you can strategically plan a dream trip, pay cash for an OK seat and fly there in a great seat.

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

Delta Boeing 767-300 Retrofit One Premium Select

Why is my seat not assigned Delta?

travel-faq

Frequently Asked Questions

1. can i choose my seat on a delta flight, 2. how can i ensure my seat is assigned on a delta flight, 3. can i purchase a preferred seat on delta, 4. what happens if i don’t have a seat assignment, 5. will i be able to sit with my travel companions if my seat is not assigned, 6. why are some seats marked as “unavailable” or “blocked” on delta flights, 7. can i request a specific seat assignment on a delta flight, 8. what is delta comfort+ and can i choose these seats, 9. are seat assignments guaranteed for delta medallion members, 10. can i change my seat assignment after it has been assigned, 11. do delta skymiles members get preferred seating, 12. are seat assignments different for international flights.

The seat assignment process can sometimes be a source of confusion and frustration for passengers flying with Delta Air Lines. Many passengers wonder why their seat is not assigned, especially when they have booked their ticket in advance. There are several reasons why this may occur:

1. Full flight: Delta operates with a policy of overselling flights to maximize revenue. If a flight is oversold and all the seats have been assigned, there may not be a seat available for every passenger. In such cases, Delta will typically offer compensation or alternative arrangements to affected passengers.

2. Aircraft change: Sometimes, due to operational reasons, Delta may switch to a different aircraft with a different seating configuration. This can result in changes to seat assignments, and some passengers may find that their previously assigned seat is no longer available.

3. Maintenance or repairs: Occasionally, an aircraft may be undergoing maintenance or repairs, which can lead to last-minute changes in seat assignments. This is done to ensure the safety and functionality of the aircraft, but it may inconvenience passengers who had previously been assigned a seat on that specific aircraft.

4. Upgrades or downgrades: Delta offers various upgrade options to its passengers, such as upgrading from Economy to Business Class. In such cases, the originally assigned seat may be changed to accommodate the upgraded seating class. Similarly, if there is a downgrade in the class, seat assignments may be adjusted.

Yes, for most Delta flights, seat selection is available. However, in certain situations, such as when an aircraft change or operational issues occur, seat assignments may not be available or may change.

To increase your chances of getting a seat assignment, it is recommended to check-in for your flight as early as possible. Delta’s seat assignment process typically begins 24 hours prior to departure.

Yes, Delta offers the option to purchase preferred seats, which often include extra legroom or a better location. These seats can be selected during the booking process or added later through the Manage My Booking section on the Delta website.

If you don’t have a seat assignment, it is best to contact Delta directly. They will assist you in finding a suitable seat or providing alternative options.

Delta makes every effort to accommodate passengers traveling together, but in some cases, if seats are limited or unavailable, it may not be possible to seat everyone together. It’s advisable to check with Delta in advance or during the check-in process to explore available seating arrangements.

Certain seats may be marked as “unavailable” or “blocked” due to various reasons, including crew positioning, safety considerations, or to accommodate passengers with specific needs. These seats are typically allocated by the airline and may not be available for selection by passengers.

While Delta allows passengers to request specific seats, it cannot guarantee that the request will be fulfilled. Seat assignments are subject to availability at the time of booking, and factors such as aircraft changes or operational needs may result in seat reassignments.

Delta Comfort+ is an enhanced seating option offering more legroom and additional amenities. These seats can be selected during the booking process or added later through the Manage My Booking section on the Delta website, depending on availability.

Delta Medallion members enjoy certain perks, including preferred seating. While seat assignments are prioritized for Medallion members, they are still subject to availability and can be changed due to operational constraints.

In most cases, you can change your seat assignment on a Delta flight. You can either do it online through the Manage My Booking section or by contacting Delta directly. However, changes are subject to availability, and fees may apply.

Delta SkyMiles members have the opportunity to access preferred seating based on their elite status tier and availability. The higher the tier, the better the chances of securing preferred seating.

The seat assignment process for international flights operated by Delta follows similar principles to domestic flights. However, certain seating configurations or aircraft-specific factors may result in variations in seat assignment options. It is always advisable to check with Delta for specific international flight seat assignment policies.

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' class=

Just booked two tickets on Delta from MSP to Jamacia. There were no seats to select, only upgrade options. Wondering if we should be concerned about getting seat assignments?

Curious about the anti- Delta/Atlanta connect stance????

I connect there all the time with less than 45-60 min.

Weather is much better than most other northern cities (little snow/icing). Never have deicing and those inherent delays. Sure occasional boomers roll by in the summer, but where don't they on the east coast?

Sure there are lots of people, but the design of the airport is easy to navigate for passengers and aircraft.

5 also runways helps ease the flow.

I purchase the regular 'K' class economy ticket. Not a Class 'E'.

1) nothing was mentioned of this when I purchased the ticket

2) you cannot get your boarding pass, so you have to go through the line with everyone checking bags to get it

3) to ensure you will get a seat... you best get there 2+ hours before your flight Maybe 3

I was told 'it was to prevent overbooking', however from some of the people on their cell phones at the gate - I am guessing that they overbook it anyway and last person(s) to the gate are SOL

' class=

I used to love travel. Since 9/11 it costs more and its a massive cattle call of foolishness and abuse.

seat not assigned delta

Missed the "few" in regard to 2015 posts

That's not what it necessarily means, all airlines hold back seats from on line seat selection to be assigned at the airport.

Could it mean what you think, yes, but you have no clue until you get to the airport.

seat not assigned delta

On one of my airport shuttles I traveled with 3 Delta flight attendants, one of whom was talking about a non- airline -employee friend who in fact purposely books flights he knows will be overbooked just to take advantage of these offers.

Phone Delta special assistance and tell them you have a frequency problem and ask them if it is possible to allocate an aisle seat as otherwise you have to continually disturb other passengers. They will almost definitely say yes.

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  • ITA Seat Assignme...

ITA Seat Assignments on Flights Booked Through Delta

Looking for recommendations. We have tickets we purchased through Delta into Milan and out of Rome at the end of April. The flight from FCO to JFK is via ITA. During booking we were unable to select seats for that leg. I have checked back a few times through the Delta portal to see if it will allow us to select seats, but it still indicates most of the seats as unavailable and a handful that suggest passengers have already been assigned. Nothing shows available in any class.

I contacted Delta and they simply said I needed to contact ITA. I haven't been able to find a good way to get in touch with them. Anyone have ideas for how to contact them? All I can find are ways to call from other countries, but not from the US. And I don't see any chat or other online way to get in touch.

Suggestions?

Have you tried doing it online at ITA's website?

Yes, I have tried via their website. I searched for my flight using the confirmation number provided by Delta, it found the flight and had options to "Edit Passenger Details" (no seating option here) or to "Customize Your Travel". The latter comes to a page that says "Sorry, it was not possible..." with a link to "Contact Us". That link goes to a 403 error page (ie, not authorized). It looks like some of ITA's pages are linked to old Alitalia pages...

+1 877-793-1717* (24 hours daily, 7 days a week) *Toll-free number

https://www.itaspa.com/en_en/support/contact-assistance/customer-center.html

You might want to hold off on booking your seats through ITA. I booked a United flight for the beginning of April. It had two legs with Air Canada and a leg with Swiss air. I haven’t been notified of it yet but one of the Air Canada legs has been canceled. I had to go through Air Canada to get refunds on those seats. The actual flight will be refunded through United, but I had to book the seats separately. As I will have to rebook the entire flight because it’s really screwed up now, I will also have to go to Swiss air and get my seat assignment costs refunded. I’m just saying with all the crazy stuff going on with flights, you might want to get closer to your flight to book those extra seats. It’s a hassle getting the refunds.

Thanks Joe! I wasn't able to find that site. Google provided links to something like that with different URLs, but none of them worked.

I was able to talk with someone from Albania using that number. After giving them the confirmation code, I was told they couldn't assign seats as it was a codeshare flight (booked via Delta) and that seat assignment would only be made at check-in, 24 hours pre-flight.

Would love to hear if anyone else has had success navigating a similar issue. Would love to have seats prior to check-in and ensure my wife and I are together, given that we paid for that when booking with Delta.

Just to finish this out...

I contacted Delta again and, understandably, they couldn't assign the seat, but this time the agent mentioned in passing a different confirmation code that was specific to ITA. I then called back ITA and used that code which allowed them to assign me a seat. We had to pay additional for the assigned seats, which I thought was covered via the Delta booking, but I guess not for codeshares.

Thanks for the suggestions and help. I'm just happy to have seats now.

For whatever it worth now, in the past when we have taken United and had connecting flights to our destination on another airline such as Lufthansa, our connecting flights have not assigned seats until 24 hours before the flight. The same experience with Swiss. There’s only been one time the seats have not been together and that was because the United Agent in San Francisco couldn’t get my ticket to scan, got frustrated and just waved me through which then affected my second flight. Good lesson, make sure your ticket beeps and you’re checked in. It’s easier discussing this with an agent in the US then in Frankfurt.

Thanks, I'm in the process of booking Delta/ITA to Italy now, but am uncomfortable because it is not allowing me to book seats. Your scenario is what I fear (booking cheapest flight but finding we have to pay extra for seats). I may go with United where at least I know I can get a seat at booking. Thanks for following up on the outcome!

I, too, have been unable to book a select a seat at least twice on tickets purchased from United that involve legs on other carriers. It has worked out fine for me as a solo traveler who is just looking for an aisle seat, though it does make me a bit nervous.

Just a word of caution with Delta (I assume the same for the other airlines) pay attention to the fare class. I typically try to book Main cabin on Delta because you can choose your seats in advance. When booking my Italy flights I noticed that there were flights operated by ITA and even though my search was for Main Cabin, if you read the fare class for those flights it actually says "Economy Classic Main"

When you click on the link for more info it explains that it is really an economy fare with ITA which does not include seat selection. So of course I looked for flights operated 100% by Delta to ensure I was really in Main cabin and could pick a seat.

Also please be aware that you cannot complete the Italian Locator form without your seat assignment. We just had to pay extra with Lufthansa for this because otherwise they don’t release the economy seat assignments for 23 hours before flight.

I have booked a flight with ITA from Rome to Palermo and know you frustration. I am flying 4 different airlines to get around. Be sure to check your baggage and carry on rules. I have seen different sizes, weights etc. I talked to the person in Albania to get my seats. Just remember I saw some fees of $300 for oversize overweight luggage.

I'm not sure what it is, but lately the whole "airline partnership" business seems to be booming for airlines and doesn't actually help the people using them. We're trying to book a flight to Italy for September, and I'm learning way too much about how airlines work (or don't work) together.

American based airlines, especially Delta, United, and American, play this game where they offer Basic or "Cabin" economy. If it's not called "Cabin" it's something else that's non-descriptive. The Cabin Economy ticket will always let you select your seat, as well as be more flexible in case you have to cancel. American doesn't even bother to include any fine print that says, "If you're trip with us takes you on a flight operated by another airline, you'll be flying Basic Economy with them and will likely have to pay for seat selection." But that's what it should say. Our thing is... we're not going to cancel this flight. Sure, there's a chance we could contract COVID or something, but I see no reason we would need the flexibility of changing a flight, but whatever. However, I spoke to a woman at American just an hour ago to see if she could find a better flight than I was finding online. She hit me with one that connected with Iberia and told me the price of the Cabin Economy and made sure to say, "you'd get to select your seats free of charge with that!". I added, "not on the 10 hour Iberia flight, though." She said, "Oh... well, yeah, not that one. But your ticket is more flexible!" She didn't even understand how nefarious it is for American to offer 3 things at a $300 upcharge, but when one of those three things is taken away... the upcharge remains $300!

Seat selection is important to us. Mostly because my wife and I don't want to sit in the middle, and we don't want to sit apart. It's really a bummer that something as simple as selecting a seat has evolved into yet another scam the airlines use to pad their CEOs' wallets.

I find Google Flights is pretty good about laying out the many options these days for an "economy class plane ticket," which has indeed gotten quite complicated

Phred, I do love the way Google Flights lets you find flights. But the one thing they can't do is give you a way to figure out added costs for all airlines involved. If you're not booking a flight that's all the same airline the entire route, then fees will start adding up.

Let's say you book a flight to Rome from DC with United. You want to select your seat and check a bag so you pay the extra $300 per ticket to do that. The hidden charge comes if that flight has a connection, let's say it flies to Chicago first, then flies out on an ITA plane to Rome. Even if you pay the $300 extra so you can select your seat, when you go to do so, you'll be asked to go to ITA's website to do it... where they charge you again. And if your returning flight has a totally different airline, say it goes from Rome to London, then flights a BA jet to DC... then you have to go on British Airway's site and pay another fee to select seats (BA is off the charts with their fees on seats). I haven't tested whether or not bags are included in this fiasco, or if they're given safe passage by your first fee.

The reason, I'm told, that they do this is because that's how they're offering "cheap" flights. If you notice, it's much more expensive to flight a single airline all the way to a destination. If they throw a "partner" flight into the itinerary, they do so at the most basic level to make the cost of the flight look more enticing. You excitedly buy 2 tickets at $1200 only to find out that selecting your seats with 2 other airlines brings the total to $2100.

Hi everybody,

I still can't select my seats on a ITA flight booked with Delta even though I've got the ITA booking reference. Any suggestion?

I'm in the same situation with a flight coming up in August. I also want to change the date on my return flight and both Delta and ITA won't let me do it online even though their Help instructions say that should be possible. I am not too happy with ITA. Learning one of their pilots fell asleep over France last month, almost provoking an international incident, has not helped with my confidence in them.

I have a September flight reservation via Delta that includes an ITA leg from Rome to Palermo. I obtained the ITA reference number and called ITA. The ITA rep told me I couldn't get an assigned seat until I was at the gate.

We too are flying MIA to FCO in August on a Delta flight that is operated by Ita Airlines. We are not able to get our seat selection even though we have our Ita locator number. We were told by Delta and by Ita that the seats are under the control of the gate. Not sure what that means, but we won't be getting seats until we get to the gate. My question is, has anyone gone through this and did you get seats ok?

I booked thru Delta and received an seat assignment. Are people using a third party like Expedia and etc? I have always been told, no seat assignment, no guarantee of seat. I never book without seat assignment.

No , I booked trought Delta. I called ITA several times and they blame the fact that Delta doesn't allow them to make changes on their tickets. Then when I spoke to Delta they say that ITA should be able to do it by their end.

There's one person in this thread that managed to do it , I tried with the ITA's confirmation code too but nothing..

I'm having the same issues as everyone else here, and it really is infuriating. What should be an incredibly simple process appears to be purposefully (?) difficult, and my assumption is that it is, indeed, a way to bilk more money for seat selection.

We are trying to book seats together for an international flight from California to New York to Rome via Delta, with ITA Airways as the partner for the overseas leg. We can select seats within the USA, Cali to NYC, via Delta with no issues. But when attempting the ITA leg, it says we need to call ITA for seat selection, which has not been fruitful at all.

If, somehow, we can get through to ITA, does anyone know the cost for standard (economy) seat selection? From other random reviews, it appears to be about $40 per seat on the low end. That sound right?

We seriously are considering just scrapping the Delta flight altogether, as we're within the 24-hour window to cancel. Anyone feel confident with any other airlines going from the USA to Italy at the moment?

A few months ago we booked a Delta flight to Rome with ITA as the transatlantic leg --- we'd always avoided Alitalia, but thought we'd give ITA a try. We always get the two seats by themselves in the back of the plane on the left side due to various issues of mine. Couldn't reserve the ITA seats. Same thing, called ITA, offered to upgrade our Delta seats, offered to pay extra to reserve the seats, asked was there ANY way to get the seats we wanted --- ITA said there was no way, it was "impossible." It was only about 15 minutes since we'd booked the tickets, so we just changed our flight to a slightly more expensive one at about the same time that did not use ITA. The part that annoys me is that Delta is still, months later, acting as though it IS possible to reserve seats on ITA.

Wow... dealing with this exact same thing. Glad and sad to see I am not alone.

My husband and I have now: -Tried ITA online - no option -Called ITA Albanians - told us to do it 'in person' -Showed up at the airport (my husband does work there for his job, so he swung by the counter) and talked to ITA in person, who sent him over to Delta -Talked to Delta at the airport, who said they could not help -Talked to Delta messaging and phone

Last chance we are going to call ITA Albany again... I even submitted a complaint through ITA and got a case number assigned, over two weeks ago, with no response.

Wish us luck...

Funny, I filed a complaint to Ita as well a month ago and never heard back.

Im glad you tried to go to the airport and shared your experience because I was about to drive to LA and see if someone could help from there.

The problem wouldn’t exist booking trough ITA directly, it’s a codeshare issue between the two companies but what really annoys me is that DELTA is selling tickets without allowing their customers to do something so basic like selecting a seat. But of course, if you wanna upgrade to business class suddenly the problem disappears and Delta will let you book your seat.

I can’t even cash out my money and go directly to ITA because there are miles and eCredits from my COVID’s cancellation involved and yes, right now at least from LA, that’s the only company flying directly to Italy..

It’s just really frustrating .

I have been told by 2 different ITA agents in not so nice terms NO SEAT ASSIGNMENTS FOR CODESHARE. literally yelling at me so I am guessing lots of codeshare travelers are calling in. After getting my ITA confirmation from Delta this am via text, I tried again and was quickly and rudely told NO and you can get a seat 48 hours in advance(my flight is from Rome to LAX). I have flown to europe yearly for 30 years and every other partner airline(british/american, lufthansa/united) has allowed us to book seats after our reservation was settled(couple days). Was excited for the quick option home to CA but not worth it if you can't get a seat assignment. WOrried we will be in center center. Will give the feedback to Delta, not sure it is worth giving the feedback to ITA. I will keep checking here in case something new pops up. I went through the process of booking my flight with ITA and the plane is showing

I also am having the same issue. I also booked directly through Delta and it looks like we might have to wait until two days before the flight to make the seat arrangements. I also found that email to ITA and have a "claim number" for my email. I'm not holding my breath.

Would one of you report back on this when you fly with ITA? Everything else went smoothly. I swear that the French and Italians really don't want us tourists there!

Will definitely report back, but our flight is not until September. We're also going LAX to FCO (and then on to Naples), for our friends wedding in Ravello! We were so excited about the direct flight option from LAX. I always try to choose the direct flights. The other options with Turkish Air were a 6+ hour layover in Istanbul... maybe that would have been worth it now. Not excited to sit middle seat on a 14 hour flight. Sigh.

Do we know if seat selection for ITA is free on a delta economy light ticket 24 hours prior to departure? Also flying from LAX to FCo

My direct flight from FCO to LAX in August is no longer direct. Now routed through CDG. Sigh. The return from LAX to FCO is still nonstop, at least for now. I wish I were not involved with this airline. Cynthia
Is there a reason why the flight is stopping at CDG?

@dgawell - Italian want tourists for sure, the economy counts on it. Agree that Ita Air is not warm and welcoming though. @amandajgrue We travel to see our family in the south of Italy every year from N. Calif. to Napoli via Frankfurt/Munich on Lufthansa/United - smooth and get seats FYI(one stop). This year we were flying into another country and out of Rome so ended up on Delta/Italian Airways. Nervous hearing about the change through Paris. We booked it for the convenience direct to LAX. Looking forward to people giving feedback how their trip went

I think this is a general code share problem. I bought seats through United that included Swiss air and Aegean components. I could pick my seats on United flights ahead of time but not the others. I logged in 23 hours before the flight as instructed and was able to pick my seats. I just wanted a window seat which I got.

Presumably this question:

relates to this comment:

Here are 2 speculative opinions on why the is

1- The FCO-LAX flight is flying into the jet stream and the plane does not have the range into a headwind.

2- Business decision due to passenger demand (or lack thereof) to fill the plane for the westward flight

We booked a flight from Miami to Rome via Delta operated by ITA. I finally spoke to a rep from ITA (in Albania) who said there is no way to select a seat prior to arriving at the gate the day of. I asked her if we can select seats if we book directly through ITA and she said yes. We cancelled our Delta flights (got issued eCredits) and rebooked through ITA, paid a small fee to select seats.

"We booked a flight from Miami to Rome via Delta operated by ITA. I finally spoke to a rep from ITA (in Albania) who said there is no way to select a seat prior to arriving at the gate the day of. I asked her if we can select seats if we book directly through ITA and she said yes. We cancelled our Delta flights (got issued eCredits) and rebooked through ITA, paid a small fee to select seats."

Might I assume your flights were cancelable?

I was told by Delta chat: "ITA Airways discontinued "Pre-Reserved Seating" (PRS) in economy compartment with all partner airlines on June 23, 2021. For the sake of clarity, also during Interline Through Check-in, seat change for the Economy seats allocated by the system will not be allowed anymore".

My understanding from both Delta and ITA is that Delta is the only one who can upgrade the codeshare, and an upgrade from Economy (to Premium Economy or Business) is required to get booking seat assignment, rather than gate.

To Eric's point above, today I purchased a Delta itinerary that included leg in premium economy seats on a FCO/BOS flight on ITA and was told by both ITA and Delta that I would not be able to book seats until 48 hours before the flight. So, purchasing a premium seat does not get around this issue either. Very frustrated along with others about this. Looking into other itineraries.

Yes this is some sort of technical codeshare issue that seems like nobody is in hurry to fix.

Delta already got the money so they don’t care. I’ve been told from a ITA agent that the problem is that delta doesn’t share with them fully the tickets information and the capability to make changes, which is what they need to assign a seat.

Either way, I dont think ill be able to select my seat until 2 days before my flight ( if lucky ) .

Flying LAX FCO, and I really hope they don’t make up any bs like layovers or things like that, since I paid for a direct flight.

The only good news here is that finally the Italian company has new airplanes and we’ll be flying on the airbus 350/900, way more spacious and comfortable than the old planes.

I booked an ITA flight (Also Delta partner) from Jfk to Rome connecting to Palermo through American Express for September. I spoke to ITA and I am able to pick seats anytime for a fee. Or I can wait when I check in 24 hours prior on the ITA website and can change my pre selected flights for free and that time.

I booked ITA/Delta for 9/13 premium economy thru AmEx and was able to select seats...guess I'd better check on them now & frequently to make sure they are still recognized/valid. Thanks, all. any suggestions welcome as always.

Yes the problem is not the flight itself but the seat selection for those that got the Ita airways tickets from Delta ..

Hi Everyone - I don't normally post but had a frustrating day trying to figure out how to get seats booked on an ITA flight booked as a codeshare through Delta.com from LAX to FCO; the alluring direct flight is what sucked us in. The bottom line is that you cannot as of today, August 21st, 2022.

After speaking with ITA's Albanian Call Center (who were very nice and helpful), there is a limitation with the ITA systems that a seat cannot be assigned unless the fee has been paid. They cannot handle this for codeshare passengers and there is no functionality in their systems that allow them to take a payment through the call center for a codeshare reservation. If you try to book directly through their site, you can see that seat assignment comes at a cost.

The agent acknowledged that this is an issue on ITA's systems, not Delta and they have told Delta about the issue many times. That Delta has done a poor job making this clear should not be a surprise to anyone. The agent did offer to me that many people would be in this predicament and that they guaranteed that my travel companion and I would be seated together.

I am trying to work out with Delta why they upsell you to Economy Classic by telling you that you can "select and change seats at any time" when you cannot.

Confirming the above, I flew ITA from FCO to LAX earlier this month, and I could not select a seat until I checked in at the airport. The online checkin did not work, either on the app or my laptop. The Delta/ITA systems apparently don't talk to each other. The flight itself was uneventful, although I have to say ITA has possibly the worst airline food I have ever experienced. So bring snacks. I've decided I am done with ITA. I changed my return flight to Delta, even though it's not direct. And of course I had to call them to do that, since it can't be done online.

we booked premium economy tickets on ITA via Delta website several months ago, for our trip in October. the itinerary is roundtrip BOS-FCO, and the return trip is on Delta. we were assigned seats, however not together, so I called Delta to see if they could assist. happened to get a very helpful agent on the phone, who acknowledged that assigning seats on the ITA codeshare flight was problematic. when she heard that it was important for us to be seated together, as the trip is a combined 65th birthday/retirement/30th anniversary celebration, which is why we were splurging on the premium seats, she made it her mission to work with ITA to change the seats. here's hoping the flight is uneventful and the food quality has improved somewhat (but let's face it, no one flies for the food).

Last night, I purchased tickets through Delta which included a flight on ITA. Same story…Would not allow me to change seats. I just changed it to all Delta. I have noticed that AA also codeshares with ITA.

Flying from LAX to Rome soon on a Delta economy ticket codeshared with ITA. Will ITA charge me for economy seat selections when we check in at LAX? Don’t want any surprises.

When I upgraded to premium economy I got an email the next day to book my seats. Believe me premium economy was not much bigger--not sure how bad regular economy is!

The solution to this is quite simple. Go to ITA website and search for your flight using your Delta confirmation number. When you find it you will see the actual confirmation number that ITA uses, it is different than Delta. Call in to ITA customer service and give them that number to select your seats. I just booked a November flight for my family, 2 adults and 2 kids and feel confident there will be no issues with us being separated on the trip.

what number did you call? Last flight I called, I was on hold for an hour. I was connected to a person in Albania who was unable to help me. I would like to upgrade and am unable to. Even with Delta's special ITA code.

I also tried calling ITA with ITA's reservation number and spoke to the rep in Albania. She said she could not do it and that we would have to get our seat assignments when we arrived at the airport. Frustrating.

ITA is in the process of changing ownership. The Delta, KLM, Air France group will be the partners. New government and Prime Minister. Everything is in flux. Terminal at FCO is now T1 for departing flights to Miami and Boston (since Aug 2022). Customer services is slowly ramping up. I hope I can purchase my seats for my March trip soon. Because I bought tix through an agent, I must wait until 48 hours before when online check in is available. My agent checked today through a backend system and sees temp assignments way back - row 30 - but together. Other airlines like Spirit (shudder) do the same. You can purchase seats only booking directly with them and paying at that moment. I suspect after Oct 31 that the purchase of the company is finalized, things will improve and better business practices ensue. I follow ITA groups on FB too. Fascinating. Everything is connected - politics, financial transactions, the war, pandemic, and we are all caught in the middle. We have to make the best of it.

Spoke too soon. Just called their new toll free customer service at +1 (877) 793-1717 and paid $33 per seat from rows 25 back. At least we have that peace of mind. No issues.

Do you have economy or premium? I can’t get seat assignments in economy.

We booked a Delta flight to Rome that went through Amsterdam (via KLM to Rome) -- THAT one, we could reserve seats on. However, the ITA return connection from Rome to Amsterdam, we CAN'T get seat reservations on -- tried through Delta/online ITA with their confirmation # that Delta was able to look up for us. However, in our case, I think at least part of the problem is that the flight lists FOUR different Airbus configurations with slashes, so we're guessing they haven't assigned a plane, yet (as the return flight is in March 2023). We had already upgraded to more legroom, etc., but it made no difference. Delta agent was as helpful as she could be, but just told us to try again closer to the flight. And, yes, it's absurd to sell us the tickets to a flight (that is supposed to include choosing our seats), and then we can't do that -- at the very least, a helpful note stating that plane is not assigned yet would be nice (if that's the reason). Hoping situation changes as flight gets closer, but at least it's only about a two-hour flight, so not as bad if we can't sit together. Our trans-Atlantic flights are Delta, and we do have seat assignments. (Also finding out just how convoluted flying within Italy is, with luggage rules that are more severe than our Delta ones, so we'll have to plan accordingly. If it weren't for having to get to/from Sicily, we'd take only the trains in Italy. And still might try to make that work!))

Success! Egads. That was a long ordeal of several months. I wrote an email five months ago to ITA and finally received a reply. They suggested I call that number in Albania, which I had done before. This time it worked, although he first said that I had to pay for a seat assignment. I told him that my booking said that was not true. I was correct and was assigned a seat at no additional cost, BUT he said I had only three flights, not four. That's not what my reservation says. Once again, EGADS.

This ended up being a real disappointment.

We checked in online at the 24-hour mark and our seats were already assigned and not in the configuration we wanted (window/middle vs. aisle/middle). In order to move the seats, even in the same row, there was a charge. We moved the seats around but never paid the charge and somehow it worked.

We went to the airport and asked the check-in agent to move our seats for us - he said is could not do it without a charge. Additionally, we were not allowed to bring on and carryon luggage that exceeded 8kg regardless of the size.

Overall, I'm glad we had a direct flight from LAX to Rome on a fairly new aircraft - the service and the food were mediocre but we did get there on time. I would recommend not booking the ITA codeshare flight through Delta if the above issues would be a dealbreaker for you. If Delta had just been upfront about all of it - that would have alleviated a lot of the issue.

We booked through Delta on ITA from NYC to Italy. I would never travel ITA again. Not only did we have to deal with the assigned seat nonsense, but ITA lost my husband's luggage for two days. What a fiasco! They were so hard to contact, and it was "wait until your luggage is found in our system, and then we will tell you what to do." So, for two days, we spent our time in Italy on the phone and then tried to find some replacement clothing, BUT it was Nov 1- a holy day, so little was open for shopping. When we finally got word that the luggage was found, we were in the difficult situation of staying in a not fully attended B&B. So, we had to go to the airport to retrieve the luggage unless we wanted to waste all three days dealing with luggage problems. Never again with ITA.!

BTW, our return flight home only on Delta went very smoothly.

dgawell, sorry you had problems. I've never flown ITA but to be honest it was not their fault you were in an unstaffed B&B or that you were there over a time when stores were closed. I'm glad your flights home went well.

i'm seeing same issue - I'm trying to help my son. He booked with United tho. ITA is his first flight out of Catania to Rome and then connect to Munich and back to boston. However, he has a very short connection in Rome so he's trying to book seat close to door. No checked luggage. When i put my record locator in My Flights on the ITA site, it shows The Booking Code entered is not valid. Yet, if i put same number in under Check In - his entire itinerary loads - tho of course he can't check in yet, as the flight is Dec 11. From the thread i see that he can select seats at 48 hours, but where and how? Normally i would check in with the airline i booked - in this case United and the flights are all on one ticket (again bought from UA). Are you guys saying that he must first go on ITA website at 48 hours and check in - independent of checking in with UA? and then hopefully he can pick seats then?? thanks for your help and advice!!

ITA had a different booking number for this flight. Delta and ITA need to coordinate in a more efficient manner.

This topic has been automatically closed due to a period of inactivity.

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    A "seat request" on a Delta flight (or on any other airline) basically means that you are requesting a seat that will be assigned to you at your boarding gate. In other words, your ticket is confirmed, but you don't have a seat assignment yet, so you're essentially toward the top of the standby passenger list.

  5. Delta Basic Economy seats NOT gate assigned

    14 reviews 48 helpful votes Delta Basic Economy seats NOT gate assigned 5 years ago Save We purchased Basic Economy seats from PHL to CUN with a stop in ATL. We understood that our seats would be assigned at the gate. If that was the case, and we were not seated together we could understand.

  6. Seat not assigned : r/delta

    I would suggest you go to the delta website, find the flight, and click "Select Seats" again. See what is available. 3 Thoreaud0wn OP • 7 yr. ago Yea, I did that and was able to select seats for all flights but one. Kinda sucks, they are singletons all over the plane, but oh well.

  7. Confirmed ticket and check in but on standby list : r/delta

    It means you don't have an assigned seat, and it will be assigned at the gate. This is most common with a Basic Economy ticket, but can happen anytime you don't select a seat in advance. You are still guaranteed a seat, they just don't know which one yet, unlike a standby passenger who is not guaranteed to get on a flight. Delta uses the ...

  8. What to Do if You Don't Have a Seat Assignment for a Flight

    Depending on the airline, if you've just purchased a flight and don't have a seat assignment, typically, you should wait until 24 hours before your flight when your check-in window opens (and...

  9. No Seat Assignment for Main Cabin?

    # 1 cvscml Original Poster Join Date: Sep 2017 Posts: 11 No Seat Assignment for Main Cabin? I am flying this week and booked a round trip in Main Cabin (not Basic Economy) as a Gold Medallion member. For some reason, I have an assigned seat on the outbound flight but not the return flight. Does anyone know why this may be?

  10. Delta.....No seat assignment allowed.

    Having some concerns about availability of seats. 1. Re: Delta.....No seat assignment allowed. It can mean at online check-in or at gate day of. Either way, you have a seat, you just don't get to pick it, or change it unless someone onboard wants to swap. Also means last boarding group, FWIW. Details at website.

  11. Seat assignments when no available seats showing on DL website

    If they are confirmed on the flight they will get seats. Many are held for gate assignment and will be doled out at the gate. You can keep checking or setup a seat alert with Expertflyer. As FlyerWx said, if the flight is far enough out you will likely be able to find seats together if you keep checking or set the alert.

  12. Delta -no seat assignment

    1. Re: Delta -no seat assignment 11 years ago Save Hi, I don't think so.. Remember that while *most* people do get the chance to or do use the advance seat request (they're requests not rights) most airlines or DL's size and structure, don't do that to 100% of the aircraft's total seat count.

  13. How You Can Still Pick a Seat with a Delta Basic Economy Fare

    Option #1 to Pick a Seat: Pay Up. For years, Delta hasn't allowed basic economy flyers to pick a seat in advance. The airline's own policies and warnings make clear it's not possible. But that's not exactly true. Delta generally allows basic economy passengers to pick a seat starting seven days before departure - for a fee.

  14. Why did Delta not assign me a seat?

    1. How common is it for Delta to not assign seats? It is relatively uncommon for Delta to not assign seats to passengers. Most of the time, seat assignments are made at the time of booking. However, in certain circumstances such as oversold flights or last-minute aircraft changes, seat assignments may not be immediately available. 2.

  15. Seat "assigned at gate" : r/delta

    Puck021 • 2 yr. ago Just relax and hang out at a restaurant or bar near your gate after you land. You have a seat on the flight. You need to do nothing to get your seat it will be assigned automatically. In fact you can just wait for your zone to board and board with your boarding pass.

  16. How To Get A Seat Assigned At The Gate When Flying Delta

    Be at the Gate at Least 30 Minutes Before Boarding One of the best ways to ensure you have a seat assigned at the gate is to be at the gate at least 30 minutes before the boarding process begins. This will give you enough time to check in, go through security, and make your way to the gate.

  17. Delta -no seat assignment

    18 reviews. 24 helpful votes. 11. Re: Delta -no seat assignment. 10 years ago. Save. I fly UA AA and Delta domestically, in that order of frequency. Do not have personal statistics, but I generally prefer Delta the least. Recent flight one week ago, could not choose domestic seats at booking. 24 hour out they assigned seats, one leg with all of ...

  18. What Does "Standby List" Mean on Delta Airlines? (Explained)

    Flying standby on Delta or on any other airline basically means you're on a first come, first served waiting list for an empty seat on the plane that is expected to remain unoccupied. Essentially, flights that are already booked full will not have standby lists available. Delta passengers that cannot make a short-notice (w/in 24-hour) change ...

  19. Secure a better seat: The ultimate guide to getting upgraded on Delta

    Delta-marketed, KLM-operated flights: Main Cabin seats booked in Y, B, M, H, Q, K, L, U, T, X or V to Z class (business class). This is because KLM does not offer a premium economy cabin on many ...

  20. Why is my seat not assigned Delta?

    1. Can I choose my seat on a Delta flight? Yes, for most Delta flights, seat selection is available. However, in certain situations, such as when an aircraft change or operational issues occur, seat assignments may not be available or may change. 2. How can I ensure my seat is assigned on a Delta flight?

  21. Delta -no seat assignment

    Delta is terrible for this. Yes, you can pay more to get assigned seats but even this doesn't work out. I just tried to book a flight using the more expensive option. When it came time to pick my seat for the return flight only 2 first class seats were available (unavailable to me of course) it said "all seats in your fare class are taken seats will be assigned airport".

  22. When your seat assignment is randomly changed with no explanation : r/delta

    When your seat assignment is randomly changed with no explanation : r/delta Open menu Open navigationGo to Reddit Home r/delta A close button Get app Get the Reddit appLog InLog in to Reddit Expand user menu Open settings menu Log In / Sign Up Advertise on Reddit Shop Collectible Avatars Scan this QR code to download the app now

  23. ITA Seat Assignments on Flights Booked Through Delta

    I was told by Delta chat: "ITA Airways discontinued "Pre-Reserved Seating" (PRS) in economy compartment with all partner airlines on June 23, 2021. For the sake of clarity, also during Interline Through Check-in, seat change for the Economy seats allocated by the system will not be allowed anymore".