Following JetBlue giving up on a free checked bag, Delta Airlines has decided to ‘redefine‘ their cabin, effective March 1, 2015.
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“Delta will offer best-in-class options for each of its customer segments with innovative multi-cabin experiences.” That translates to…”you demanded we keep prices low. This is the only way it can be done.”
Delta’s lowest fare, Basic Economy, permits no changes or refunds…at any price. Something we think is more trouble than it is worth. It also offers no advance seat selection. This is only in select markets…mainly those where they compete with airlines like Spirit.
Main Cabin is the traditional product. Delta Comfort+ is their premium economy product, with more legroom, priority boarding, and complimentary alcohol. First Class is their upgraded domestic route product. And Delta One will be their First/Business class on international and transcontinental routes.
On one level, ala carte pricing is a wonderful way to demonstrate to customers they can save money if they forego amenities, but it just seems sometimes like a race to the bottom.
Renaming the classes is like rearranging the deck chairs on the Titanic. We might as well suggest bringing back the old name for the lowest class of service on a ship…Steerage.
