ATLANTA, GEORGIA – Delta Air Lines is set to implement a new boarding process for its passengers, aiming to streamline and simplify the boarding experience. Starting May 1, the airline will introduce a system where passengers will be grouped into numbered zones for boarding. This change is a departure from their current method of boarding by named categories, such as cabins, status, and ticket types.
The new process will involve pre-boarding followed by Delta One or First Class customers boarding in Zone 1, Diamond Medallions and Delta Premium Select customers in Zone 2, and so on. Zones 1 through 4 will use the Sky Priority lane, while Zones 5 through 8 will use the General Boarding lane. The numbered zones will be clearly indicated on customers’ boarding passes for easy reference.
According to a Delta spokesperson, the switch to numbered zones aims to provide more clarity and efficiency during the boarding process. This change is particularly beneficial for infrequent travelers and those facing language barriers at the gate. Additionally, aligning with joint venture and international partners will offer a consistent experience for international customers traveling on mixed-metal itineraries.
Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian has emphasized the importance of simplicity in the boarding process, believing that a streamlined approach is key to efficient boarding. By reverting back to numbered zones, Delta hopes to enhance the overall boarding experience for both passengers and airline staff. This shift reflects the airline’s commitment to improving customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.
The decision to reintroduce numbered zones comes after Delta temporarily moved away from this system in 2019 in favor of boarding by named categories. However, the airline has recognized the benefits of returning to numbered zones, citing increased clarity and a more intuitive boarding sequence as key advantages. Overall, the upcoming changes aim to make the boarding process less stressful and more straightforward for all travelers.