Delta Basic Economy vs Main Cabin: What is the Difference?

Delta Basic Economy vs Main Cabin Differences

What is Delta Basic Economy?

Key Features of Delta Basic Economy

• The lowest fare offered by Delta

• No seat selection (Delta assigns your seat)

• No flight changes or ticket refunds

• No upgrades even for elite members

• Board last (Zone 4 or 5)

• Still earns SkyMiles but limited Medallion Qualification

• No guarantee that families will be seated together

What is Delta Main Cabin?

Key Features of Delta Main Cabin

• Full seat selection at booking

• Eligible for upgrades to Delta Comfort Plus or First

• Changes and cancellations permitted with fee or difference in fare

• Eligible for earlier boarding zones

• Family seating more easily arranged

• Accrues SkyMiles and Medallion Qualification Credits

• Same checked bag fees as Basic Economy

Delta Airlines Baggage Policy | What’s Included?

• Carry-on: 1 standard hand luggage in the overhead bin and 1 personal item should fit under the seat

• Checked bags: Not included. Fees apply depending on route and loyalty status

• Carry-on: Same allowance as Delta Basic Economy

• Checked bags: Also not included by default. Same checked bag fees apply

Note: Basic Economy and Delta Main Cabin fare have the same carry-on rights which sets Delta apart from some competitors like United, which restricts overhead bin access for Basic fares.

Delta Airlines Seat Selection: Assigned or Chosen?

• No seat selection allowed during booking

• Automatic seat assignments are made at the gate or during check-in

• No guarantee of being seated with travel companions

• Seat selection is included in the fare

• Choose standard seats when booking

• You can change your seat later if availability allows

Delta Airlines Flight Changes and Cancellations

• No changes allowed

• No cancellations or refunds, except within 24 hours of booking

• The ticket is a use-it-or-lose-it

• Changes allowed but fare difference may apply

• Cancel for a Delta eCredit on many domestic and international routes

• More flexibility if plans shift

Can You Upgrade From Basic Economy to Main Cabin?

Final Thoughts: Which Should You Choose?

• You want the cheapest ticket and don’t care about seat location

• You are traveling solo and light

• You do not plan to change or cancel your flight

• You’re comfortable with the risk of being seated apart from companions

• You want to choose your seat at booking

• You might need to change or cancel your flight

• You are flying with kids or a group

• You value boarding earlier or possibly upgrading

• You want to get full SkyMiles and elite status credits