Delta Airlines has made the strategic decision to introduce premium economy seats on flights between New York JFK and Los Angeles, starting in September. This move marks a significant shift in the airline’s offerings, as Delta Premium Select will be exclusively available on this domestic route. The premium economy cabin will be featured on four out of the 11 daily flights between the two cities, utilizing newly refurbished Boeing 767-400ER aircraft.
Passengers flying in Premium Select seats on the Boeing 767s can expect a superior seating experience, with 38 inches of pitch between rows and seven inches of recline. This is a notable upgrade from the 32 inches of pitch in standard economy seats and 34 inches in the extra-legroom Comfort Plus seats. The 767 Premium Select cabin is configured in a six-across formation, providing passengers with a more spacious and comfortable seating arrangement compared to the seven-across economy cabin.
In addition to the enhanced seating, Premium Select customers will also receive a range of exclusive benefits, including a complimentary in-flight meal, dedicated check-in and baggage service, and enhanced in-flight amenities such as noise-canceling headsets. This premium offering is designed to cater to passengers looking for a more luxurious and comfortable travel experience.
SkyMiles members who hold loyalty status will have the opportunity to apply for upgrades to Premium Select on the JFK-LAX route. The process for upgrading to Premium Select will be the same as the one used for domestic first-class upgrades, providing loyal customers with the chance to enjoy the premium economy experience on this route.
Delta’s decision to introduce Premium Select on the JFK-LAX route puts them in direct competition with United Airlines, which already offers premium economy-configured aircraft on transcontinental routes between Newark and LAX, as well as Newark and San Francisco. The addition of premium economy by Delta is a strategic move to capture a share of the premium travel market and cater to passengers looking for a more upscale flying experience.
Delta’s introduction of premium economy on the JFK-LAX route signifies a significant investment in enhancing the overall passenger experience. By offering Premium Select seats with exclusive benefits and upgrades for loyal customers, Delta is positioning itself as a competitive player in the premium travel segment. This move is likely to attract discerning passengers seeking a more comfortable and luxurious travel experience on domestic flights.