Delta Airlines Seat Selection Policy

A passenger's comfort can be significantly affected by which seat he or she chooses on an aircraft. If traveling with Delta Airlines, you can easily experience comfort with various seating options under the Delta Airlines seat selection policy.

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Delta airlines seat selection policy

Whether a passenger is aiming for a window seat, extra legroom facility, or prefers sitting with their companions, the airline provides flexible choices across its fare classes. In this comprehensive guide, you will be provided with all the information you need to know about Delta Airlines seat assignment, cost, etc. 

Can You Pick Your Seats on Delta Airlines?

Yes, passengers can choose their seats based on their ticket types. Please note that Delta Economy seat selection is not feasible during the booking process. A random seat will be assigned to them at check-in. Additionally, if they want a specific seat, they can purchase it about seven days before flight departure. 

Main Cabin travelers can choose their seats for free during the booking or while checking in. Premium Select, First Class, and Delta One fares include a complimentary seat selection facility during the booking. Preferred seats and Comfort fares are upgraded seating options that offer more legroom and a prime location for an additional Delta seat selection fee. 

Delta Airlines Seat Selection Rules Based On Fare Types

Delta seat selection rules vary by fare type, affecting a flight's availability, flexibility, etc. Here's a quick explanation of what you can expect to help you better understand your ticket.

Fare Type Seat Selection Rules Seat Type Can Sit with Travel Companion?
Basic Economy No free seat selection — assigned at check-in or random unless you pay Standard Economy (assigned last) Not guaranteed  
Main Cabin (Classic) Free seat selection at booking for standard seats Standard Economy Yes 
Main Cabin Extra Free seat selection including Preferred Seats (closer to front, aisle/window) Standard with better location Yes 
Comfort+ Free seat selection in Comfort+ cabin Extra legroom with 34 inches, dedicated cabin  Yes 
Premium Select Seats assigned in Premium Select cabin (auto or selected) Wider seats, leg/foot rest with 38 inches pitch   Yes 
First Class (Domestic) All seats are assigned or selectable Recliner seats with 37–38 inches pitch    Yes 
Delta One (Intl/Long-haul) All seats are assigned or selectable (lie-flat seats)      Lie-flat seats   Yes 

Delta Airlines Seat Assignment Policy (2025 Update) 

Discover Delta Airlines seat assignment updated 2025 policy! This outlines how seat selection works, covering fare classes, elite status benefits, etc. Seat assignments are based on fare classes and other travel elements as follows - 

1 - Basic Economy 

If you plan to board on a Basic economy delta seat selection, you must know that no advance seat selection facility is available for this fare. Passengers’ seats are automatically assigned at check-in, typically toward the backside of the plane, and you will have no option to choose. You can pay for a specific seat; otherwise, it will be automatically assigned to you. 

2 - Main Cabin

Delta main cabin seat selection is permitted. Passengers can choose standard seats either during booking or at the time of online check-in without any Delta seat selection price. A preferred seat upgrade is available for this fare. That means seats towards the front of the plane with extra legroom are available to purchase. Prices may vary by route and potential requirements. 

3 - Comfort Plus

Comfort+ is a fare class in which seats include up to 4 inches of extra legroom, a priority boarding facility, and preferred overhead bin space. These seats are subject to a specific Delta Airlines seat assignment charge. Additionally, passengers can choose the seats during the flight reservation or later via the “My Trips” option on the website or mobile app. 

4 - Premium Cabins (Premium Select, First Class & Delta One)

Delta’s premium cabins are Premium Select, First Class, and Delta One. All fares include complimentary seat selection at booking so that passengers can secure their preferred spot from the start of the journey. Delta premium select seats on international flights offer wide, reclining seats with adjustable foot and leg rests, etc. 

For domestic and short-haul flights, First-Class tickets include free seating with an extra reclining facility near the front cabin and dedicated services. On the other hand, Delta One offers lie-flat seats and direct aisle access on long-haul flights and premium routes. 

Delta Premium Select Seats vs. Comfort Plus

Have you wondered whether Delta Premium Select seats on international flights are better than Comfort Plus seats? This quick comparison can help you determine which fare class best fits your journey based on seat comfort, amenities, and perks. 

Features   Comfort Plus Premium Select 
Seat  Pitch       34–38″  38–40″  
Seat Width    Standard economy width (17–18.5″)    Wider (19–20″), with more elbow room 
 Seat R ecline    Standard (Modestly deeper than economy)   Up to 7″ recline with better cushioning  
Foot Rest   None    Extendable leg and foot rests  
Amenities   Pillow/blanket, premium snacks on long-haul flights     Premium amenity kit, memory‑foam pillow with hot towel service 
 Meal/Beverages   Complimentary alcohol premium snacks on several routes   Formal meals, complimentary wine, and spirits are included.   
Delta Seat Selection Cost     Yes     Typically 2× Comfort Plus 

What Will  Happens If You Don’t Select a Seat on Delta? 

These are the possible circumstances if you have booked a flight ticket with Delta and haven’t selected a seat. Let’s understand them. 

  • Passengers with Basic Economy fares receive a random seat according to the basic economy Delta seat selection rules and regulations. 
  • For the Delta main cabin seat selection and above, the airline selects a seat for you once online check-in opens.

Note: If your seat has not yet been assigned at check-in, your boarding pass may display "see agent" or "seat assigned at gate." Do not panic. The result is that you will be able to get a seat once you arrive at the gate. 

Is Delta Seat Selection Free With Certain Tickets?

Depending on the fare type you choose,  you will be able to determine whether you need to pay the Delta seat selection fee. Let's examine this in more detail. 

  • Basic Economy: No free seat selection is permitted. Seats will be automatically assigned at check-in. However, passengers can pay in advance for a seat seven days before departure. 
  • Main Cabin: Seat selection on the main cabin fares is free during flight booking or check-in.
  • Premium Cabins (Comfort+, First, Premium Select, Delta One): Seat selection is always included in the flight booking. 

Delta Seat Selection Fees

Here’s a clear Delta seat selection cost table summarizing fees based on fare type and seat choice:  

Fare Class   Seat Selection  Option Seat Selection Fee 
Basic Economy

Auto‑assigned at check‑in. Passengers must pay to choose a seat 7–30 days before departure.

 Not specific, based on routes.  
 Main Basic     Free during the booking     No 
Preferred Seats   Pay extra: front cabin, exit rows (Not applicable for Basic Economy)    $15–$59 per segment 
Comfort+    Seat selection is included with the upgrade  $19–$109+ for the upgrade  
First Class / Premium Select / Delta One    Seat selection always included  No  

Tips  - If you’re paying extra for added perks, you might ask, is Delta Comfort+ worth the seat selection fee?

Delta Seat Selection Map/Chart

The seat map is helpful if you are confused about Delta basic economy seat selections and the main cabin or other fares. It allows you to confirm your preferred seat and enjoy your trip as you expected. 

From delta economy seat selection to choosing your preferred seats on premium fares, you can find the seat map without needing to book a flight ticket. To do so, follow the instructions noted below - 

  • Search for a flight for your preferred route on the Delta AIrlines website. 
  • Each flight displays a seat map, which you can see by selecting “Seats.”
  • Once you have picked your desired seat, you will be redirected to a new page where you can preview your flight seat. 

Note - you can also view the seat map during the Delta flight reservation process. Once your flight has been selected, you will be taken to a new page prompting you with the option to pick a seat.  

Is The Delta Seat Selection Fee Refundable?

Generally, the delta seat selection price is non-refundable. However, in specific situations, like when Delta changes your flight, if it's your choice to cancel a Delta flight for a qualifying reason, a Refund may be initiated. For clear information, speaking with the official representative at 1800 123 6645 is recommended. If the representatives are unavailable due to any technical problem, dial +1-800-506-7805 to talk with the OTA flight experts for quick assistance. 

How To Pick Seats On Delta Airlines?

Selecting a seat on Delta Airlines is easy, whether it's about Delta seat selection basic economy, or other fares. Delta offers flexible options for choosing or upgrading your preferred seat when booking, checking in, or managing your trip later.

1 - During Booking

Passengers who want to book a Delta flight with a Main Cabin or premium fares such as Delta Comfort+, First Class, or Delta One can select their seats at no Delta airlines seat assignment charge. 

However, Basic Economy passengers are not permitted to choose a flight seat for free, but they can pay for the Delta Basic Economy seat selection cost in advance. Passengers who can select their seats for free during the booking can follow these instructions - 

  • Step 1 - Open the official website or the Delta Airlines app.
  • Step 2 - After filling out your details and choosing your flight, you will be prompted to select seats. (A live seat map shows available seats.)
  • Step 3 - After you select your desired seat, you'll be redirected to a page where you can preview your seat.
  • Step 4 - Follow the instructions and complete your booking. 

2 - After Booking 

Delta Airlines makes it easy for passengers to manage their seat selection through its official website or App. Here is how you can pick seats on a flight after booking - 

  • Step 1 - Open the official Delta website or an App. 
  • Step 2 - Tap on the My Trips section on the homepage menu.
  • Step 3 - Enter the flight booking confirmation number, first and last name, and proceed.
  • Step 4 - Once you access your booking, look for the “View or change your seat up until check-in opens” option. 
  • Step 5 - Change to a different seat or upgrade your seat with the associated Delta Airlines seat assignment charge.

When managing a reservation, you can change your seat (subject to fare class rules) or modify other details. However, name corrections or changes are governed by official Name Change Policy guide, which may include certain fees or restrictions.

Special Request: Delta Basic Economy Seat Selection With Child

Delta basic economy, also called main basic, does not include seat selection at booking, and Delta does not guarantee you adjacent seats even for families with children. However, the airline tries to seat families together. You can ease your odds by following some practical steps:

  • Same Reservation: You can book everyone on the same reservation, as it will ensure that system recognizes you as a group.
  • Check-in time: You should also check-in online before 24 hours departure as seating inventory refresh and some seats may become available.
  • Call to Reservation or ask at Airport Gate: Agents can also help to reassign seats to keep families together on many occasion. Delta always try to accommodate family seating needs when feasible. 

Delta Seat Selection International Guidelines 

According to the Delta seat selection international rules, the airline allows seat selection for international flights based on your fare type. Main Cabin passengers can choose standard seats for free, while Preferred or Comfort+ seats typically cost extra depending on route and availability. 

A seat selection option is not included in Basic Economy fares. At check-in, Delta will assign seats. Nevertheless, it is possible to pay for the choice of a seat up to 7 days before departure. Delta One, Premium Select, and First Class are premium cabins offering free seat selection.

While selecting seats, travelers should also verify that their booking details especially passenger names match their government ID. If you find any spelling errors or need to update your name before travel, follow our step-by-step guide on How to Change Name on a Delta Ticket for easy correction instructions.

Updated: 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Do I have to pay to sit with my partner on Delta Main Cabin?

You are not required to pay anything. Standard main cabin seats are free, and you can sit with your partner if those seats are available to the Delta main cabin seat selection policy. Preferred seats (such as exit rows or front seats) are subject to a fee.

Q2. I’m flying Delta Premium Select internationally — does that include seat selection or do I pay extra?

Yes, seat selection is included in your Delta Premium Select international fare. With Premium Select, you can choose any available seat during booking without paying an additional fee.

Q3. How far in advance can you select seats for international Delta flights?

If you are traveling internationally with Delta, you should be able to select seats as early as 24 hours before departure through the "Manage Trips" feature or when you book your ticket. However, according to the Delta seat selection basic economy, some fares, such as Basic Economy, may not allow free seat selection until check-in is open (24 hours before departure), or may require a fee for early selection.

Q4. Can I see Delta’s seat map before booking to know what I’m paying for?

Yes, it is possible to view the Delta seat map before booking to preview seat availability and plan accordingly.

Q5. Can I change seats on a Delta flight after boarding?

After you're on the plane, changing seats is difficult. Seats may have already been assigned and adjustments made. However, it is always recommended that you ask the representative if you have any questions and receive the appropriate assistance from them.

Q6. I booked through a third-party site — can I still select a seat on Delta.com?

There is typically no problem selecting your seat once you book through a third-party website.

Q7. Does Delta refund your seat selection fee if you cancel within 24 hours?

If you cancel your Delta flight within 24 hours of booking, you will receive a refund for any seat selection fees.

Q8. Do Delta Medallion members get complimentary preferred seat selection?

Yes, Delta Medallion members receive complimentary preferred seat selection, provided they are not traveling on a Basic Economy fare class.

Q9. Are Delta seat selection fees refundable if I cancel my ticket?

Yes, you may get a refund if you cancel your flight ticket within 24 hours of booking or if your flight ticket is refundable.

Q10. Does Delta ever reduce seat selection costs closer to departure time?

No, Delta Airlines does not reduce any seat selection costs closer to the departure date. You can check the real-time update by contacting the Airline.

Q11. How far in advance can I select a seat when booking with Delta?

Delta Airlines allows you to select a preferred seat anytime from the time of reservation until before the check-in process begins. Additionally, you can choose a seat during check-in.

Q12. Can I use Delta eCredits to pay for seat selection fees?

No, you cannot use Delta eCredits to pay for seat selection fees as it can only be used to pay the future flight fee. To get more updates, you can talk to customer support directly.

Leave a Reply

  1. Flying rules Logo
    Harold Franklin
    September 24, 2025

    If Delta changes my aircraft last minute, can they reassign my preferred seat? And will I be eligible for refund or compensation in that case?

  2. Admin
    September 24, 2025

    Yes, Delta will reassign your preferred seat if there’s an aircraft or schedule change. If you paid for seat selection and don’t like the assigned seat then you’re eligible for a refund of the seat fee.

  3. Flying rules Logo
    Gabriel dunlop
    August 19, 2025

    Is there any chance of selecting a seat for free with Basic Economy, like after check-in opens?

  4. Admin
    August 19, 2025

    Yes, Once the check-in window opens, seats are assigned for free. However, passenger can purchase a seat assignments starting seven days before departure untill 24 hours prior but only for a fee.

  5. Flying rules Logo
    Shorena Lagadze
    July 23, 2025

    I was unsure about how Delta’s seat selection works, especially with the Basic Economy fare. This guide really cleared up all my confusion. It clearly explains when I can choose a seat for free, how much I would need to pay, and even details about Comfort+ and exit row seats. I especially appreciated the info on delta seat selection basic economy and families traveling together. Super helpful and well-organized structure definitely bookmarking this for my next Delta trip.

  6. Admin
    July 23, 2025

    Thanks a lot Shorena Lagadze for your valuable feedback!

Any thoughts or questions? Comment below!

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