Delta’s Enhanced Inflight Service on Short Flights: Tired of Premium Yet?

“Delta is not a low-cost airline. We can’t win by trying to provide the cheapest. We have to be able to win by providing the best.”

According to Fortune, that’s what Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian said during an episode of Titans and Disruptors of Industry, a podcast about the business world.

Less than a month later, Delta made national news when it announced cabin service is no longer available on flights 349 miles (as the crow — not the plane — flies) or fewer. The exception is for Delta First.

The previous limit was 250 miles.

The change takes effect May 19 and affects roughly 450 flights. Megan Divers points out that some of the affected routes include “(some) of the country’s busiest short-haul corridors…including Los Angeles to San Francisco, New York JFK to Boston and Atlanta to Charlotte.”

Much Ado About Nothing?

I usually bring water or coffee (sometimes both!) on most flights, regardless of duration. Even when I sit in First Class. I’ve drastically curbed my alcohol intake (five drinks total in the past 18 months). I’ve flown 12-hour flights without booze; I can handle 75 minutes — even 75 days! — without needing a cocktail.) So, I don’t “need” anything. Going a couple of hours without a snack wouldn’t kill me.

But here’s where I shake my head: Delta prides itself on being a premium airline. And they command premium-priced airfares.

“The airline now commands roughly 20% more revenue per seat than its competitors,” notes Fortune’s Sydney Lake.

But they can’t serve some sodas, water, and some snacks during an hour-long flight?

“American Airlines and Southwest Airlines both provide snack and beverage service on flights over 250 miles, while United Airlines cuts off in-flight service at 300 miles.”

—Megan Divers, NBC

Even their competitors — who usually charge less — do better.

No matter how this is framed, the cut appears cheap — especially to those who expect Comfort+ service, which advertises complimentary alcoholic beverages (with fine print, of course).

My hunch? Depending on the flight crew and what is catered onto the flight, you can ring the call button and ask for something to drink or some of those amazing Biscoff cookies.

(Quick aside: Biscoff cookies taste better in the air. I will die on that hill.)

Before you jump to the Comments section, there’s more. And it’s not bad.

But There’s a Positive Tradeoff

Delta is making a decent compromise, though.

Flights over 350 miles no longer get the “Express Service” (or whatever it’s called) treatment. That’s basically coffee and water and some snacks. Beer and wine, too, if you’re in Comfort+.

Starting May 19, everything 350 miles and above receives full beverage service. Yes: Woodford Reserves and Coke Zeros all around!

The previous minimum was 500 miles.

So, we have a rare #KeepDescending and #KeepClimbing in one post.

Final Approach

New Delta cabin service minimums take effect on May 19. Honestly, it’s not terrible — but that’s just me.

What do you think? Do these affect you? Delta employees who read the blog (and I know you do!), what’s your honest reaction? (Or do we really want to know? 😉  )