Delta May Be Considering a Cheaper Business Class Option — What We Know So Far

Delta Air Lines is considering offering a more affordable way to fly at the very front of the plane, as the carrier admitted discussions took place about a cut-rate premium fare class.

During its second-quarter earnings call last week, Glen Hauenstein, the airline’s president, was asked about the possibility of introducing an unbundled business class option. Similar to basic economy, the proposed fare could be less expensive than Delta’s full business class tickets, though the exact details of what is (and isn’t) included remain unclear.

“I think you’re going to have to come to investor day to hear more about that,” Delta president Glen William Hauenstein said in the call. “We’ve talked conceptually about that. I think we’ll be giving you more details as we go, but we’re not ready to talk about the details of those plans moving forward.” 

As it stands, Delta’s premium passengers enjoy top-rate amenities like free checked bags, relaxed modification policies, lounge access, and meals onboard — all of which could theoretically be excluded from the new fare class. On the flip side, a pared-down version of business class could be a compelling option for travelers who don’t always take advantage of these enhanced perks.

The news comes as the airline opened its flagship Delta One lounge at New York-JFK, which is designed to be a cut above its network of Sky Clubs. Only accessible for international business- and first-class passengers, it’s certainly possible that Delta’s unbundled fare could exclude entrance into this coveted lounge.

Saver business class fares with reduced amenities already exist on several international carriers, such as Qatar Airways. Therefore, it’s not surprising that Delta would follow this trend, though it remains to be seen when the rollout of a new fare class takes place.

Delta has introduced new fare class options over the years, including Premium Select seats on transcontinental flights. Furthermore, the airline is still in the process of adding more Delta One suites to its Airbus A350-900 aircraft.

A representative from Delta did not respond to T+L’s request for further comment.