Delta blocking off more seats on aircraft to promote physical distancing

To provide more spacing between passengers amid COVID-19, Delta Air Lines is expanding on its initial blocking of middle seats by limiting the sale of select aisle and window seats. The airline will also restrict seating to 50% in First Class and 60% in the Main Cabin.

Additionally, Delta Comfort + and Delta Premium Select will reduce overall customer numbers in all cabins across the fleet.

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The alteration, which is in effect through June 30, 2020, is the latest action that the airline has taken to ensure the health and well-being of its customers and workers.

The airline blocked the sales of all middle seats in mid-April but has extended this policy for select window and aisle seats in all cabins as well.

“Seat blocks for narrowbody and regional jet aircraft will launch this week; blocks for the two-seat sections of widebody aircraft will be visible in the coming weeks,” Delta explained on its website. “This measure expands our seat blocking practices to Delta’s entire operating fleet, including mainline and regional Delta Connection aircraft.”

Now, when travelers go to select their seats on the Fly Delta app or through the Delta Air Lines website, the blocked seats will appear as unavailable.

Those traveling with companions who would rather be seated next to each other, or individuals that require special assistance, are encouraged to contact an agent when they arrive at their boarding gate.

The airline explains that it will continue to reevaluate its systems and procedures to ensure the best possible conditions for optimal safety onboard its aircraft.

On top of requiring passengers and staff to wear face coverings, Delta Air Lines has expanded electrostatic spraying to all aircraft before takeoff in addition to other “extensive cleaning measures” before every flight.

The company has also altered its boarding process to ensure “more space for safer travel” by boarding all flights from the back to the front, which reduces the necessity of passengers having to pass each other to get to their seats.

Delta is also providing passengers with hand sanitizer and “amenity kits” as well as other protective equipment to minimize the transmission of coronavirus.

For a comprehensive list of how Delta Air Lines has implemented changes to ensure the health and safety of customers and staff, visit the Delta website.