Delta Air Lines Expands “Basic Economy” Fare Rules

Delta is expanding their value-fare product called Basic Economy (fare class E).  These fares are highly restrictive and have significantly different rules compared to a standard non-refundable ticket.

The new rules apply to tickets purchased on or after Oct 8, 2014 and apply to travel on or after February 1, 2015.  Basic Economy fares have the following restrictions:

• Tickets are completely non-refundable and non-changeable.  If a traveler purchases a Basic Economy Fare and does not complete the EXACT itinerary, the entire fare is lost at the time of cancellation.
• These fares are not eligible for same-day confirmed or same-day standby changes, regardless of Medallion or other Elite status.
• Advance seat selection will not be available regardless of Medallion or other Elite status.  Basic Economy seats are automatically assigned when the traveler checks-in (up to 24 hours prior to the flight scheduled departure time via delta.com or airport kiosk).
• Basic Economy fares are not eligible for paid or complimentary First Class upgrades, Preferred Seat upgrades, or Economy Comfort seating regardless of Medallion or other Elite status.
• When boarding the aircraft, Basic Economy customers will board last – access to overhead bins may be limited.  Priority Boarding for purchase as a Trip Extra will not be offered.  However, Medallion customers, others with Elite status, and Delta SkyMiles American Express credit card holders will continue to enjoy their Priority Boarding benefits (for now 😉 ).
• SkyMiles members who purchase a Basic Economy fare are still eligible for mileage Qualification Segments (MQSs), and Medallion Qualification Dollars (MQDs).  Additionally, as determined by the member’s Medallion tier, select Medallion benefits, such as waived baggage fees, Priority Check-in, Priority Boarding, and Medallion mileage bonuses will continue to be offered.

Currently, Basic Economy fares are only available in 21 markets and is subject to change at any time.  The current markets are listed below (both directions):

For more information, please click on the link below:
click here (Delta.com)