What is Delta Premium Economy? Answer is – Delta Premium Economy, officially known as Delta Premium Select, is a travel class offered by Delta Air Lines that sits between Main Cabin (economy) and Delta One (business). It provides passengers with a more comfortable and enhanced travel experience compared to economy, with perks like wider seats, extra legroom, additional recline, an amenity kit, and priority boarding. It’s available on select long-haul international flights and some transcontinental domestic routes.

Is Delta Premium Economy Worth It?

Delta Premium Select, formerly known as Delta Premium Economy, is Delta Air Lines’ premium economy cabin class, strategically positioned between Main Cabin (economy) and Delta One (business class).

This elevated travel experience is tailored for passengers seeking a more comfortable and refined journey without the price tag of business class.

What is Delta Premium Select?

Delta Premium Select offers a host of enhanced features designed to elevate your travel experience. Passengers can expect:

More Spacious Seating: Wider seats with additional recline and pitch, providing ample legroom and personal space.

Dedicated Amenities: A premium amenity kit filled with essentials like a TUMI eye mask, socks, earplugs, and Malin+Goetz skincare products.

Enhanced Dining: Elevated meal service featuring a wider selection of dishes and complimentary alcoholic beverages.

Priority Perks: Enjoy priority boarding, expedited security lines (where available), and dedicated overhead bin space.

Why Choose Delta Premium Select?

Delta Premium Select is an excellent option for those seeking a more comfortable and luxurious travel experience without the steep cost of business class. It’s ideal for:

Long-Haul Flights: The extra space and amenities make a significant difference on flights exceeding a few hours.

Comfort-Conscious Travelers: If you prioritize comfort and personal space during your journey, Premium Select provides a noticeable upgrade.

Special Occasions: Whether it’s a honeymoon, anniversary, or a well-deserved treat, Premium Select can make your trip more memorable.

Who Should Consider Delta Premium Select?

Delta Premium Select is a versatile option suitable for a wide range of travelers. Consider it if you:

Value Comfort: If you find standard economy seats cramped or uncomfortable, Premium Select’s spaciousness will be a welcome change.

Want Extra Perks: The added amenities, priority boarding, and elevated dining can significantly enhance your overall travel experience.

Have a Flexible Budget: While more expensive than Main Cabin, Premium Select offers a compelling value proposition compared to business class.

As Henry Harteveldt, a travel industry analyst and president of Atmosphere Research Group, puts it, “Premium economy is a good compromise for travelers who want a better experience than coach, but can’t afford or don’t want to pay for business class.”

Booking Delta Premium Select

Securing your Delta Premium Select seat is a straightforward process, with multiple avenues available to suit your preferences and budget.

1. How to Book Delta Premium Select

You can book your Delta Premium Select seat through the following channels:

Delta’s Website or App: This is the most direct method, allowing you to compare fares, select seats, and manage your booking online. Simply visit the Delta website or download the Fly Delta app, enter your travel details, and choose “Premium Select” as your desired cabin class.

Delta Reservations: You can also call Delta reservations to book your flight. A helpful agent will assist you in finding the best fares and answer any questions you may have.

Travel Agents: If you prefer personalized assistance, a travel agent can guide you through the booking process and help you find the best deals.

2. Understanding Fare Classes and Upgrades

Delta Premium Select fares are typically divided into different fare classes, each with varying levels of flexibility and benefits. Higher fare classes may offer perks like refundable tickets or the ability to change flights without fees.

If you’ve already booked a Main Cabin ticket, you may have the opportunity to upgrade to Premium Select. This can be done during booking, at check-in, or even at the gate (subject to availability). Delta SkyMiles members may also use miles to upgrade their seats.

3. Finding Deals and Promotions

While Delta Premium Select is a premium product, there are ways to find deals and promotions that can make it more affordable:

Sign Up for Delta Emails: Subscribe to Delta’s email list to receive notifications about special offers and promotions.

Check for Fare Sales: Delta occasionally offers fare sales on Premium Select tickets, especially during off-peak travel seasons.

Consider Award Travel: If you’re a Delta SkyMiles member, you can use your miles to book Premium Select flights. This can be a great way to save money, especially for long-haul flights.

As Brian Kelly, founder of The Points Guy, advises, “Be flexible with your travel dates and times, and be willing to consider alternative airports to find the best deals on Delta Premium Select.”

Delta Premium Select Cabin Features

Delta Premium Select isn’t just about an upgraded seat—it’s about a holistic cabin experience designed to prioritize passenger comfort and convenience.

1. Seat Features and Comfort

The Premium Select cabin is thoughtfully designed with your comfort in mind, boasting features that make even long-haul flights a breeze.

Seat Dimensions and Configuration: The seats in Premium Select are significantly wider and offer more pitch (the distance between your seat and the one in front) than those in Main Cabin. You’ll have ample space to stretch out and relax, with the added bonus of a dedicated armrest for each seat. The configuration varies depending on the aircraft, but you can expect a 2-3-2 or 2-4-2 layout, ensuring that most passengers have direct aisle access.

Recline and Legroom: The seats recline significantly more than those in economy, allowing you to find a comfortable position for sleeping or simply relaxing. The added legroom ensures you won’t feel cramped, even on longer flights.

Seat Amenities: Each Premium Select seat comes equipped with a variety of amenities to enhance your in-flight experience. You’ll find a personal power outlet and USB port to keep your devices charged, an adjustable headrest for added support, and a footrest for extra comfort.

“Delta’s Premium Select seats are a notable improvement over standard economy seats,” says Zach Griff, Senior Reporter at The Points Guy. “The wider seat, increased legroom, and additional recline make a real difference on long-haul flights.”

2. Cabin Layout and Atmosphere

The Premium Select cabin is typically located at the front of the aircraft, just behind Delta One. Its smaller size and dedicated flight attendants create a more intimate and personalized atmosphere compared to the bustling main cabin.

The cabin’s aesthetic is sleek and modern, with ambient lighting and tasteful design elements that contribute to a relaxing environment.

“The Premium Select cabin is a haven of tranquility compared to the main cabin,” says Ben Schlappig, founder of One Mile at a Time. “The smaller size and dedicated crew make for a more personalized and attentive service.”

3. Entertainment and Connectivity

Delta Premium Select ensures you stay entertained and connected throughout your flight with its comprehensive entertainment and connectivity options.

In-flight Entertainment System: Each seat is equipped with a high-definition touchscreen that provides access to a vast library of movies, TV shows, music, games, and more. The selection is regularly updated, ensuring there’s always something new to discover. Delta Studio also offers premium content like HBO and Showtime, so you can catch up on your favorite shows while in the air.

Wi-Fi Options: Delta offers a variety of Wi-Fi plans to suit your needs, ranging from free messaging to high-speed internet access for streaming and browsing. You can purchase a Wi-Fi pass during booking, through the Fly Delta app, or onboard the aircraft. Delta’s Wi-Fi coverage is extensive, ensuring you can stay connected on most flights.

Delta Premium Select Service and Amenities

Delta Premium Select goes beyond a comfortable seat, offering a range of services and amenities that make your journey more enjoyable and convenient.

1. Priority Boarding and Check-In

As a Premium Select passenger, you’ll enjoy Sky Priority® service, which includes:

Expedited Check-In: Dedicated check-in counters mean less time waiting in line and more time to relax before your flight.

Accelerated Security: Move through security checkpoints faster with dedicated Sky Priority lanes, where available.

Priority Boarding: Be among the first to board the plane, ensuring you have ample time to settle in and stow your carry-on luggage.

Priority Baggage Handling: Your checked bags will be among the first off the carousel, allowing you to quickly continue your journey upon arrival.

These benefits are especially valuable during peak travel times or when connecting flights are involved.

2. Dedicated Overhead Bin Space

Premium Select passengers have access to dedicated overhead bin space, ensuring that you’ll always have room for your carry-on luggage.

This eliminates the stress of searching for space and the worry of having to gate-check your bag.

3. Amenity Kit Contents and Quality

Delta Premium Select provides a thoughtfully curated amenity kit to enhance your comfort and well-being during the flight. The kit typically includes:

• TUMI eye mask: A luxurious eye mask designed to block out light and help you sleep.
• Malin+Goetz lip moisturizer and hand lotion: High-quality skincare products to keep your skin hydrated during the flight.
• Ear plugs: Noise-canceling ear plugs to help you relax and minimize distractions.
• Socks: Comfortable socks to keep your feet warm and cozy.
• Dental kit: A toothbrush and toothpaste for freshening up.
• Pen: A handy pen for filling out forms or jotting down notes.

4. Food and Beverage Service

One of the highlights of Delta Premium Select is the elevated dining experience. You’ll be presented with a menu featuring a wider selection of appetizers, entrees, and desserts compared to Main Cabin.

The meals are often inspired by local flavors and prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients.

Meal Options and Quality: Depending on the flight duration and time of day, you can expect a multi-course meal with options like grilled chicken, pasta dishes, or regional specialties. Special meals catering to dietary restrictions are also available upon request.

Alcoholic and Non-Alcoholic Beverages: Delta Premium Select offers a complimentary selection of beer, wine, and spirits, including signature cocktails. Non-alcoholic beverages such as juices, sodas, coffee, and tea are also available throughout the flight.

5. Other Perks (Noise-canceling headphones, blankets, pillows, etc.)

Delta Premium Select provides a range of additional comforts to ensure a restful and enjoyable journey. You’ll receive:

Noise-canceling headphones: These headphones help to reduce ambient noise, allowing you to relax and enjoy the in-flight entertainment or simply unwind.

Plush blanket and pillow: A soft blanket and pillow are provided to help you get comfortable and perhaps even catch some sleep.

Refreshing hot towel service: Start your journey feeling refreshed with a warm towel before take-off.

According to Zach Honig, Editor-at-Large at The Points Guy, “The food and beverage service in Delta Premium Select is significantly better than what you’ll find in economy, with a wider variety of options and more refined presentation.”

Delta Premium Select vs. Main Cabin

Deciding whether to upgrade to Delta Premium Select is a personal choice that hinges on your priorities and budget. Here’s a detailed comparison to help you make an informed decision.

1. A Detailed Comparison of Seats, Service, and Amenities

Feature	Delta Premium Select	Main Cabin
Seats	Wider seats with more legroom and recline, dedicated armrests, adjustable headrest and footrest.	Standard economy seats with less legroom and recline.
Amenities	Premium amenity kit with TUMI eye mask, Malin+Goetz skincare products, earplugs, socks, and more.	Basic amenity kit (may not be included on all flights).
Dining	Enhanced meal service with multiple courses, wider selection, and complimentary alcoholic beverages.	Standard meal service with limited options and beverages available for purchase.
Boarding & Check-In	Sky Priority service with expedited check-in, security, and boarding, plus priority baggage handling.	Standard check-in and boarding procedures.
Other Perks	Dedicated overhead bin space, noise-canceling headphones, plush blanket and pillow, hot towel service.	No dedicated overhead bin space, headphones, blankets, or pillows available for purchase.

2. Is the Price Difference Worth It?

The price difference between Delta Premium Select and Main Cabin varies depending on the route, travel dates, and booking time. Generally, you can expect to pay a few hundred dollars more for Premium Select on a round-trip international flight.

Whether the price difference is worth it depends on your individual preferences and priorities. If you value comfort, extra space, and enhanced amenities, the added cost may be justified, especially for long-haul flights.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or prioritize affordability over luxury, Main Cabin might be a more suitable choice.

“The value proposition of Premium Select depends on your personal travel style and the length of your flight,” says Scott Mayerowitz, Executive Editorial Director at The Points Guy. “For some, the extra comfort and amenities are worth the added cost, while others may be content with the standard economy experience.”

3. When Does Delta Premium Select Make the Most Sense?

Delta Premium Select is a particularly attractive option in the following scenarios:

Long-Haul Flights: The extra space and amenities make a significant difference on flights exceeding a few hours.

Overnight Flights: The enhanced recline and amenities like a blanket and pillow can help you get a good night’s sleep.

Special Occasions: If you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself, Premium Select can elevate your travel experience.

Business Travelers: The added comfort and productivity-enhancing amenities can make a difference when traveling for work.

Delta Premium Select vs. Delta One (Business Class)

For those seeking an elevated travel experience, Delta offers two premium cabin options: Delta Premium Select and Delta One (Business Class).

While both provide a significant upgrade from the Main Cabin, there are key differences to consider when deciding which is right for you.

1. Key Differences in Seats, Service, and Amenities

Feature	Delta Premium Select	Delta One (Business Class)
Seats	Wider seats with additional recline and legroom compared to Main Cabin.	Lie-flat seats that convert into fully flat beds for optimal comfort.
Privacy	No dedicated privacy dividers.	Privacy dividers for added seclusion and personal space.
Amenities	Premium amenity kit with TUMI eye mask, Malin+Goetz skincare products, earplugs, socks, and more.	Upgraded amenity kit with premium Le Labo products, slippers, and more.
Dining	Enhanced meal service with multiple courses, wider selection, and complimentary alcoholic beverages.	Fine dining experience with chef-curated meals, premium wine pairings, and a wider selection of beverages.
Service	Dedicated flight attendants for Premium Select.	Personalized service with dedicated flight attendants for Delta One.
Other Perks	Dedicated overhead bin space, noise-canceling headphones, plush blanket and pillow, hot towel service.	Additional perks like turndown service, pajamas, and access to Delta Sky Club lounges.

2. When to Choose Delta Premium Select over Delta One

While Delta One undoubtedly offers a more luxurious experience, there are scenarios where Delta Premium Select might be the better choice:

Budget: If you’re looking for an upgrade from Main Cabin but are on a tighter budget, Premium Select offers a more affordable option.

Shorter Flights: For shorter flights where a lie-flat bed might not be necessary, Premium Select’s enhanced comfort may suffice.

Availability: Delta One is often in high demand, so Premium Select may be more readily available, especially for last-minute bookings.

Personal Preference: Some travelers may prefer the more intimate and less formal atmosphere of the Premium Select cabin.

Ultimately, the decision between Delta Premium Select and Delta One depends on your individual needs and priorities. As Gary Leff, founder of View from the Wing, advises, “Consider your budget, the length of your flight, and the importance you place on amenities like lie-flat seats and premium dining when making your decision.”

Delta SkyMiles and Premium Select

Delta SkyMiles, the frequent flyer program of Delta Air Lines, offers numerous ways to earn and redeem miles, and flying in Delta Premium Select can significantly boost your rewards.

1. Earning and Redeeming Miles

Earning Miles: When flying in Delta Premium Select, you earn more miles per dollar spent compared to Main Cabin. The exact earning rate depends on your fare class and SkyMiles Medallion status.

Redeeming Miles: You can use your SkyMiles to book Delta Premium Select flights. The number of miles required varies depending on the route, travel dates, and demand. However, Premium Select awards generally cost less than Delta One awards. You can search for award availability and book flights through the Delta website or app.

2. Medallion Status Benefits

Delta SkyMiles Medallion members enjoy additional benefits when flying in Premium Select, including:

Complimentary Upgrades: Medallion members are eligible for complimentary upgrades to Premium Select, depending on their status level and fare class.

Priority Check-In and Boarding: Medallion members enjoy dedicated check-in counters and priority boarding, making the airport experience more seamless.

Bonus Miles: Medallion members earn additional bonus miles on flights, including those in Premium Select.

“Flying Delta Premium Select not only provides a more comfortable experience, but it also helps you earn and redeem SkyMiles faster,” says Randy Petersen, founder of FlyerTalk. “The bonus miles and upgrade opportunities can quickly add up, making it a valuable choice for frequent flyers.”

Tips for Flying Delta Premium Select

Flying Delta Premium Select is an investment in comfort and convenience. To maximize your experience and ensure you get the best value for your money, consider these expert tips:

1. How to Get the Best Value

Book Early or Look for Deals: The earlier you book, the more likely you are to find lower fares for Premium Select. Additionally, keep an eye out for special promotions or sales, often offered during off-peak travel periods.

Consider Award Travel: If you have Delta SkyMiles, redeeming them for a Premium Select ticket can be a great way to save money, especially on long-haul flights.

Use a Travel Agent: A knowledgeable travel agent can help you find the best deals and ensure you get the most out of your SkyMiles or other loyalty programs.

Look for Upgrades: If you’ve already booked a Main Cabin ticket, consider upgrading to Premium Select at check-in or the gate. You might find a surprisingly affordable upgrade option.

Check for Fare Sales: Delta occasionally offers fare sales on Premium Select tickets, so be sure to check their website or sign up for their email alerts to stay informed.

Consider a Delta SkyMiles Credit Card: Many Delta co-branded credit cards offer welcome bonuses and perks like priority boarding and free checked bags, which can enhance your Premium Select experience.

“Booking in advance or during a fare sale can significantly reduce the cost of a Premium Select ticket,” says Brett Snyder, President of Cranky Concierge air travel assistance. “It’s also worth considering award travel if you have a stash of SkyMiles.”

2. Maximizing Your Comfort and Experience

Choose Your Seat Wisely: Delta’s seat map allows you to select your preferred seat in advance. Consider your personal preferences for aisle or window access, proximity to the lavatories, and legroom when making your choice.

Pack Light: Even with dedicated overhead bin space, packing light can make your journey more convenient and stress-free.

Dress Comfortably: Wear loose-fitting clothing and layers to adjust to the cabin temperature.

Stay Hydrated: The cabin air can be dehydrating, so drink plenty of water throughout your flight.

Take Advantage of Amenities: Utilize the provided amenity kit, noise-canceling headphones, blanket, and pillow to enhance your comfort.

Explore the In-flight Entertainment: Delta Studio offers a wide array of movies, TV shows, music, and games to keep you entertained throughout your flight.

Don’t Hesitate to Ask: If you have any questions or need assistance, the Premium Select cabin crew is there to help you.

FAQs

What is the difference between Delta Premium Select and Delta One?

Delta Premium Select offers enhanced comfort and amenities compared to Main Cabin, while Delta One provides a truly luxurious experience with lie-flat seats, premium dining, and additional perks like lounge access. You can find a detailed comparison in Section 6 of this article.

Is Delta Premium Select worth the extra cost?

The value of Premium Select depends on your individual preferences and priorities. If you value comfort, extra space, and enhanced amenities, it can be a worthwhile investment, especially on long-haul flights.

Which routes offer Delta Premium Select?

Delta Premium Select is available on select long-haul international flights and some transcontinental domestic routes. You can check availability on the Delta website or app when booking your flight.

Can I upgrade to Delta Premium Select after booking?

Yes, you may be able to upgrade to Premium Select after booking, depending on availability. You can check for upgrade options through the Delta website or app, at check-in, or even at the gate.

What are the benefits of flying Delta Premium Select for Delta SkyMiles members?

Delta SkyMiles members earn more miles per dollar spent on Premium Select tickets and may be eligible for complimentary upgrades. They also enjoy priority check-in and boarding.

Does Delta Premium Select offer lounge access?

No, Delta Premium Select does not include lounge access. However, you can purchase a Delta Sky Club membership or a single-visit pass for access to Delta’s airport lounges.

Bottom Line

Delta Premium Select offers a compelling upgrade from the Main Cabin, providing enhanced comfort, amenities, and service.

Whether it’s worth the extra cost depends on your individual needs and priorities. Consider the length of your flight, your budget, and how much you value comfort and convenience when making your decision.