Delta Airlines is one of the largest American airlines and is headquartered at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. It has one of the largest network hubs in the world and flies to over 325 destinations in 64 different countries. What began as Huff Daland Dusters, a crop dusting service, later became Delta Air Services with passenger flights starting in June 1929.

2013 saw Delta become the world's largest airline in terms of scheduled passengers, and the second largest in terms of revenue passenger-kilometers.

The company has worked extensively to make sure that customers have perks on most (if not all) planes in its fleet.

Passengers in the wide-bodied Boeing 766 are guaranteed to have wireless Internet available. Other models of planes may have Wi-Fi, but this feature has to be added to some planes (especially the fleet of Airbus and smaller narrow-bodied models).

Delta Sky Magazine, which is published by MSP Communications offers customers a wide variety of items to be perused in-flight.

Keep reading for pros and cons, plus Delta reviews from real customers.

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The Good

Rewards Program
Payment Options
Lots of Destinations
Varied Fleet
In-Flight Food and Beverages
Customer Service
On-Time Flights

Rewards Program

There is a lot to like about Delta's SkyMiles rewards program. It is one of the only airlines in the industry to not let its customers' frequent flier miles expire. This perk for returning customers provides the potential for significant value over time.

Additional perks that come with being a SkyMiles member include flight upgrades, vacation packages, and other amenities.

There are no blackout dates for Delta's SkyMiles program.

Transparency is an important component of Delta's packages. Their travel insurance (offered through Allianz) is straightforward, easy-to-understand, and is perfect for nearly every passenger.

Payment Options

Another positive aspect of flying with Delta is that you are able to pay for a flight with sources of credit other than a credit card. Another payment option that could be used, for example, is Bill Me Later.

Lots of Destinations

Delta has a wide array of destinations available for its clients. Their network of partners makes it easy for customers to get anywhere in the United States.

In some states, it was also possible to get to smaller cities through some of their partners. For example, we found that Moab, UT (a popular tourist spot) has scheduled service with SkyWest and Delta.

Varied Fleet

Another thing that separates Delta from their competition is their fleet of planes. Several Airbus and Boeing models are used in its wide-bodied fleet, and come with Wi-Fi, LCD displays (as of 2012), and AC power for laptops (on some planes).

Many narrow-bodied planes, mainly used for smaller connecting flights, also have Wi-Fi and other entertainment options available for customers.

In-Flight Food and Beverages

The carrier has an extensive meal service for its flights, and any flight over six hours has a complimentary meal.

There is a wide variety of beverages available on flights. Alcoholic beverages include wine, beer, and some other liquor varieties that vary in price based upon the flight.

Also, all non-alcoholic beverages (including soda and coffee) are free.

Customer Service

A customer service experience with Delta is most likely to be positive. The website is filled with information that potential fliers may ask. It is simple to contact customer support via Domestic Flight Booking service number (800-221-1212), to ask specific questions about prices for purchasing a ticket. This is also a great place, along with their website, to get information about travel insurance.

On-Time Flights

As per Flightstats.com, Delta flights arrive on-time roughly 87% of the time. Compared to other top airlines, this is very competitive.

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The Bad

Baggage Fees
Upgrade Issues

Baggage Fees

Let's face it; airlines can have a lot of problems when it comes to baggage. The largest complaints with Delta seems to stem from checked baggage fees. Some customers complained about the second checked baggage fee of $35. When customers take a carry-on that should be checked, some became offended at the complimentary free baggage check after check-in.

Upgrade Issues

Going overseas, some customers had issues with the economy upgrade perks to their ticket. When the economy comfort perks had been "overbooked," customers were issued a refund, but often complained at not getting the experience that they had originally paid for.

Overall, these complaints were to be expected when flying in general, and most customers were pleased with their Delta experience.

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The Bottom Line

We have the utmost faith in recommending Delta as an airline. We really liked the company's outstanding reputation with customers and the SkyMiles rewards program. It's very rare to find an airline that doesn't let your frequent flier miles expire. However, with Delta, your coverage will vary. There are some changes between the SkyMiles 2015 plan and the 2014 plan and these depend upon the flight purchased and where your flight is going.

Delta is also environmentally friendly. In 2008, they started using a Pre-Kote, a surface treatment to prevent corrosion on its aircraft.

Overall, we feel like Delta is on the cutting edge in terms of customer service and its SkyMiles Program.

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User Reviews

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Patrick L Sugrue Ooltewah, TN

We have flown Delta many times to different parts of the USA and for the most part the flights have been ok. Yes times have changed and planes are full and with discount fares, more people than ever are flying. We think they do a good job and understand it is a tough job. We've not been on a plane since COVID and won't fly for some time till things settle down. Our only complaint with Delta was their companion pet policy. Too many people are fudging their need for a companion pet exemption IMO because they are too cheap to pay for their dog to be shipped. The other thing we've experienced is large people and their body overhanging into our space. We've had that happen twice, one guys gut was so large, he couldn't put his tray tabled down and asked us if he could put his drink on my wife's tray table. He was a nice guy, but really??? He should have been required to pay for two seats. Our last few flights which were cross country we've flown first class and that service is exceptional. Yes you pay for it, but in our late years it is worth it for us.

5 years ago

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DealStar Salt Lake City, UT

Having lived in a major hub for Delta Airlines for most of my years, I have flown a LOT with this airlines. I have had only two majorly disruptive experiences with Delta, one being the disconcerting time that someone inserted broken glass shards into my checked luggage, so when I arrived at my destination I had large glass shards in my clothing. The second incident was a strangely intrusive search of both my person and my luggage when I flew with a "one way" ticket to pick up an automobile I had purchased. Since I had no return ticket, I was suspect. This was shortly after the 9-11 attacks and is forgivable as such. Both of these incidents were at the hands of individuals, and as such, I don't blame Delta Airlines as a company. My fights have been consistently on time, and overall, I still prefer Delta to most other options. A couple of bad apples in the Delta bush don't deter me from flying with them. I still recommend Delta Airlines to my clients, friends, and family members, and they are still my #1 choice for domestic air travel.

5 years ago

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Fran

I flew from Seatac to Phx,AZ and back 2 days later. Both flights were oversold and customers were asked to take later flights. We were also told that there was inadequate space on the plane for each passenger to place one bag in in the overhead bins. This caused me a lot of stress as I could not repack my medical supplies in my smaller bag and let them gate check my carryon. I was lucky enough to find a bin that wasn't full. The flight attendants and pilots appeared to be doing there jobs well and were as helpful as possible. On my first flight , it was indicated that the fruit & cheese platter was available but when I requested it in flight I was told that they had not been stocked and the only meals available on the plane were ones I could not eat due to allergies.

6 years ago

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Lud Mushluck Houghton, MI

I fly Delta exclusively. Although 7-8 years ago they were dubious, now days the service is top shelf. You get the feeling from everyone in the organization that your business matters to them. I connect on regional jets to DTW or MSP. As is often the case there are "issues" with the regional jets. However, lately, the service associated with the delays caused by "issues" is extraordinary. Rebooking begins immediately, fees are waived, what ever they can do they do it. While you're waiting for your delayed flight they order in Subway sandwiches or McDonalds breakfast, or provide other snacks and beverages. Gone are the days when they treat you like a mushroom, if you know what I mean. I really enjoy flying Delta. probably shouldn't say that as it will jinx my next flight. But, I do. Good company and my hats off to the leadership in the company that really turned it around.

11 years ago

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Thom Gretna, LA

I fly to L.A. a few times a year and have never had a problem with Delta. A few years ago I applied for the AmEx Gold Delta Skymiles card and was happy I did. I love the free first bag checked and the fact that I can board early. But, there is always a but. The ticket agents at the airport always give me a different answer as to whether I can check in through Sky Priority or through the non priority lane. On my last trip, when I got to the ticket agent, she told me that I could have gone through the Sky Priority lane because I have the gold card. That's not what I was told the prior trip. Ticket agents need to be "on board" with correct information about this. Not a big deal, just an observation. Other than that, all of my trips to L.A. or wherever I with Delta have always been nothing but positive!

11 years ago

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Lyn Okemos, MI

From safety ratings for covid, I saw that Delta was the best of the airlines with surpassing guidelines for safety. I have not had luggage problems that I have experienced with other airlines. It was easy to purchase and confirm a flight from their website. They have good updates on your upcoming flight. It is also nice that they continue to allow you to carryon luggage instead of charging a big fee like Spirit.

4 years ago

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Victor Olaore Omoshehin Brooklyn, NY

Delta Airline have been one of the flights ✈ which I have patronized so well this year 2021. My experience with Delta to Houston, NYC among others have been really inspiration. I will recommend that they keep to their time of their flight schedule as much possible as they can. My other concern have been at times when the flight gates changes while waiting to be boarded. It will take only focused and vigilante pansaangers who pay attention to get the notification about these changes.

4 years ago

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Celia Pascoe Allentown, PA

Delta airlines seemed to be right on during Covid-19. Making people wear masks (which was a mandate) and then keeping empty seats between people. Many airlines did not do this because of loss in revenue. I commend Delta for keeping people safe above their profits. I also have found the staff easy to work with and when I called to ask questions I was able to get a customer service representative that I could understand who was professional and courteous. Thanks Delta!

5 years ago

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Dee Mattapan, MA

Delta airlines is pretty cool. I usually end up flying Delta when I visit Atlanta, GA. The flight is comfortable for the most part, I really enjoy the snacks they give out. The flight attendants are pretty nice and the flight is comfortable. The only downside is some of the people who board the flight. I know there's really no way to control that but good lord! Lol

5 years ago

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Caloway Salt Lake City, UT

I love Delta. They are a super great company, they fly to many locations, and the flight attendants are super nice and friendly all the time. I have never had a bad experience with them. The only downside is that they are a pricier airline but it is well worth it. I have tried to save some money a few times by booking a different flight via another airline and regretted it every time.

5 years ago

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Best ever!

Everywhere we went last year on Delta was perfect, except for Salt Lake City. Jill (with the broken thumb) was rude and hateful. She turned a family away that was late. She did not even try to help them. She just basicly told them they were too late. They were there at the load time. She than told them loading time is 15 minutes early and that was that.

6 years ago

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Charley W Gevneuvon Los Angeles, CA

So, this review is from the perspective of what I am finding online, and not necessarily from a recent flight. The prices for Delta just seem a bit higher compared to other companies. I'm planning a trip to Peru in November, and when looking at multiple companies and online flight book agencies, Delta is always more expensive. Is this because of the destination? Or in general is the quality of flight just better (I'm mainly only use United). I thought this would be a good takeaway for some readers who are interesting in also flying to Peru this year to maybe look for alternatives.

7 years ago

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Michael

At first, i heard that Delta wasn't good enough.. When I found out about my flight cancelled due to the snow.. they helped me to get the best as possible to get on the flight and I explain my deaf access.. Afterward, they gave me some mileage credit and they helped deaf people afterward.. Deaf Access is important to me and to deaf community. I often go on flight with them because they treat me good now.

7 years ago

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Nichole Davidson Sandy, UT

Not quite 5 stars due to higher prices. I fly with Delta most often for work trips due to company preference. I've been on both their newer and older planes in their fleet and the difference felt pretty drastic. Older planes weren't that comfortable with no inflight entertainment and crowded seating. Delta's newer planes are naturally better - felt roomier, inflight entertainment, seats were more comfortable with better aesthetics making it a more enjoyable experience. Service is always great with Delta - boarding, inflight and when landed.

8 years ago

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Kari Staheli

One of our last flights with Delta we were stuck on the plane for 40 mins until they decided to have us disembark. Once we were off the plane we found out the flight was going to be cancelled because of terrible weather in our next lay over city. We quickly went to a ticket counter to see if we could get the next plane to our destination. Delta was able to arrange a flight the next morning for us.

9 years ago

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Kenneth Okerlund Orem, UT

I have only flown delta on an international trip, I started in California and was flying to England. There were a few layovers before the over the sea trip, all of which were very reasonably timed. For the long (8 hour) flight they had entertainment in the form of music, and videos. I had no complaints other than the space between their seats because I am tall (6'3"), but that is not uncommon for me to have that problem.

9 years ago

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Nestor Abonitalla Elizabeth, NJ

I took Delta to and from Manila on March 15 and July 15 respectively and I found their seat more comfortable and the food was almost excellent. Our trip was on time except for delayed flight from Detroit to Newark with acceptable reason. Overall my experience was excellent and if given the chance I will take my next trip (again) with Delta, only I am also weighing options on the fare price, and my latest trip was not so expensive. I hope I can get a better deal next year, thank you>

11 years ago Edited September 14, 2021

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martha molitor Howell, MI

Northwest Airlines I loved. Now Delta Airlines I love. While there can be delays, usually weather related, I've been able to work through it. And the possibly newest thing to get us on and seated, is the pre carryon boarding by staff. It makes boarding quicker. I saw some folks who were hesitant, but many were like my husband and I, willing. Delta is generally our first choice.

11 years ago

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Luz Arango Hollywood, FL

Over all I like Delta a lot, Hate the fact that they are charging for second bag but I guess we owed that to Spirit that changed a lot of the new regulations. That is an airline that I wont take for any money. DL customer service is very competitive, friendly, love the skymiles program and the Amex Dl for the rewards program as well. The way Atlanta airport is designed is super easy and friendly to move faster to the next connection.

11 years ago

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Jasmine B Tallahassee, FL

I have had great experiences with Delta Airlines. They always give you free drinks and snacks and have minimal interruptions. If they do have interruptions, delays, or cancellations it is most likely for your safety due to weather concerns or problems with the plane that don’t occur too often. I had good seats next to my sister and it was a rather pleasant flight. Sometimes I do have that occasionally child kicking the back of my seat which can get super annoying but other than that, it has been pretty good. Also, these scenarios are not really the airlines fault but it can take away from the pleasantness of your experience.

6 years ago

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Mario Martin Montgomery, TX

My relatives are employees of Delta, so I should be a little bias but I'm actually not. Delta services are incredible especially if you're interested in booking flights at a moments notice. This is an Airline that will actually go the extra mile to accommodate my travel needs and request.

4 years ago

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Lynette Jorgensen Herriman, UT

Wide variety of destinations and time of travel to choose from. Prices are comparable to other airlines. The seats are comfortable and the planes are clean. My only complaint is that you have to pay extra money to choose your seat.

4 years ago

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Darrin Pelham Rincon, GA

I have flown many a flights on Delta and have never really had any issues. The value of the flights have always been good and I have always found a flight that has met my needs. The staff has always been polite and helpful in every way. I recommend Delta for wherever you need to fly.

5 years ago

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Julia Howe Logan, UT

I have flown with delta many times. During this pandemic I had to travel with delta they were very good a separating everyone. They also had snacks ready for us. Everytime I have been on one of their flight the take-off and landing are amazing. I would definitely recommend people to fly with delta.

5 years ago

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Alexander Johnson Burbank, CA

I like delta. Wish they kept the middle seat open tho because it seems like they are money hungry. Last flight had a massive delay and missed. Y connecting flight due to them not listening to me when I expressed a concern. They didn’t even try to rectify it. Ruined part of my trip

6 years ago

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Aaron Paxman Lehi, UT

I have been required to fly Delta due to my work scheduling my flights for me and they have not been good experiences. Customer service seemed irritated when I asked for their assistance in rescheduling my flight. The flight and crew had excellent service once I was onboard the plane but getting the flight fixed when a hassle.

7 years ago

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Matt Hanzel Saratoga Springs, UT

I now fly exclusively with Delta Airlines for both work and leisure. My only complaint would not be specific to Delta Airlines but all the airlines. That is that it is becoming more difficult to fly using miles with all the blackouts and restrictions these days.

7 years ago

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Brian Slade South Jordan, UT

Generally never had any issues with Delta. The one complaint I'd have is the lack of leg room. For a someone who is 6'4" those seats are pretty uncomfortable to sit in if you're in standard class. Delta Comfort is better and First Class is even nicer. Customer service has always been phenomenal.

8 years ago

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Cristina Anderson San Antonio, TX

I try to always fly with Delta. I know they have gotten some bad press in the past year or so, but my experiences with them have been positive. I am not really a frequent flyer, like a business person, but having had to fly a few different airlines out of necessity (I won't name them), I really, really, prefer Delta.

8 years ago

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Melanie Atlanta, GA

I flew delta to and from Salt Lake City, from Atlanta, in april. Great experience. Nice planes with TVs in the back of seats to watch movies and play games. Good way to pass the time.

8 years ago Edited September 14, 2021

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Suzanna Wootton Springville, UT

I’ve flown with delta for years. The most recent was on a trip for my honeymoon and it was back when the delta headquarters had an issue and got everything shut down so our flights were cancelled, etc. They were very kind and gave us $400 in vouchers for the inconvenience.

8 years ago

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Lydia Kropelnicki Maple Valley, WA

Delta was very cool with us when we needed to change our ticket times when we made a mistake booking. Boarding went smoothly and the in-flight service was good. Staff were very friendly and attentive and I would recommend this airline.

8 years ago

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Abbey Richards American Fork, UT

I liked flying to Delta on their bigger planes. Their bigger planes had comfier seats and bigger TV screens. Their food wasn't very good though. I didn't like the snacks either. When I have flown on their smaller planes, they weren't as nice. Delta is also more expensive.

8 years ago

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Breanna Jones Salt Lake City, UT

Although I wish it wasn't so expensive for bags and to change flights plans, Delta can get you anywhere. I appreciate being able to fly direct to Europe from Salt Lake City because no other airline does that here. Prices are sometimes higher with Delta but Delta can take me anywhere

9 years ago

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Doyal Stewart Salt Lake City, UT

Delta used to be my favorite airline, I always felt like they had really great service. I felt like the seats were a little roomier, and the planes were in a bit better shape than some of the airlines I have been on. The prices were decent, especially during off times of the year. I would recommend friends to use Delta airlines.

9 years ago

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Pasquel Ross Charlestown, IN

My flight experience was great as well as my dealings with the counter agents when I changed my flight. The only issue I had was internet connectivity. On two of my flights the internet didn't work. Overall a very solid experience and I feel comfortable recommending Delta for your next flight.

9 years ago

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richard sundown Niagara Falls, NY

never had a problem with Delta. Even when a flight delay held us up in Honolulu Delta re-booked us on a later connecting flight automatically. When they knew we would miss our connecting flight in Atlanta. The kept in constant contact via text, was nice to be kept in the loop.

11 years ago

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Hershel Strickland San Antonio, TX

When I fly, Delta is one of the three carriers I will fly with. Pilots are great, so is the cabin crew, but the ground agents sometimes haven't been the most friendly to deal with when around the gate. But my overall experience has been wonderful each time I choose Delta. I have no problems giving Delta a hearty thumbs up.

11 years ago

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Yisha Gu Downers Grove, IL

We booked flights from Boston to Washington, DC with an hour layover in New York City. After using multiple airlines, Delta comes out on top for superior customer service. The staff are clearly motivated, engaged, and interested in any passenger needs. I appreciate so much that about every hour or so there are staff up and down the aisles offering drinks and one can always go to the kitchen area for more if needed.

6 years ago

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Summer Porter Managua, MN

I have flown with Delta Airlines several times and each flight has been a pleasant experience. A few months back, I had a several hour flight delay through Delta in which they brought out snacks and were offering help to those who needed an immediate change in flight plans. From my experience, Delta employees are very sensitive to their travelers and proactive in offering help.

6 years ago

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Wendy Liu Bethesda, MD

The staff gave quick, friendly service at the terminal counter. The boarding process was well organized and I could actually understand their announcements which is seldom the case for other airlines I have flown. The plane was clean with comfortable seating which was roomy enough, but could have been a bit better. Service during the flight was also friendly. The seat back entertainment center was a plus for our long flight, which included games and several newer movies we had not seen.

6 years ago

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Helen Thompson Bountiful, UT

WE HAVE FLOWN WITH DELTA MANY YEARS AND FEEL LIKE THEY REALLY DO TRY AND PLEASE THEIR CUSTOMERS.WE LOVE IT BECAUSE WE CAN USE OUR FREQUENT FLYER MILES WITH THEM , WE CAN FLY WITHOUT HAVING TO PAY FOR OUR LUGGAGE . THEY HAVE ALWAYS BENT OVER BACKWARDS TO HELP WITH OUR NEEDS WHETHER IT WAS 35 YEARS AGO ADOPTING A BABY FROM COSTA RICA OR GETTING A BETTER SEAT WITH A HIP OR BACK INJURY. THEIR STAFF ON THE PHONE IS ALWAY READY TO HELP YOU IF THEY CAN .

7 years ago

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JAKE American Fork, UT

We fly Delta all the time and have had mainly good experiences. When booking online it is frustrating though because I feel like the prices are always changing as you are booking. It showed the price then we looked at a couple other airlines and when we came back within the hour the price had raised by about $50 for the same seat so that was frustrating.

7 years ago

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Katie Howard Pleasant Grove, UT

Of the regular airlines (not discount), Delta is one of the best. We often find decent fares through them, and they have lots of flights available, although that might be because our closest airport is one of their hubs. We end up using them more than any other airline. They seem to be a little more reliable and more flier-friendly than most of the other large airlines, although they have cut services and space along with everyone else.

7 years ago

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Nerissa Pineda Provo, UT

I've almost always flown with Delta Airlines. It's easy to accumulate miles, their credit card makes it easier, and I love that you can check one bag for free on each flight. The only problem that I have had is that you can't cancel or transfer flights. It's so hard to plan ahead in life when there are so many changes. I've had to cancel or change flights because life happens, things change; but I either can't or have to pay a huge fee to do so.

8 years ago

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J Paul Wright Central, UT

I have flown Delta or its partners quite a bit, mostly because I have their rewards program with my AMEX. I have generaly been please with their service and timeliness. I have been lucky to not have been cancelled or even very late on a flight. I love that my AMEX allows me to get a free bag, which is beneficial in todays flying world. They are a little more expensive, so I have to be careful to fly at the right time.

8 years ago

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Linda

I fly often for work and rarely am I dissapointed. The staff is mostly gracious and willing to help. The seat room is better than any other airline and most of the year I leave and arrive on time.

6 years ago

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janice

Good. No unruly persons, fairly quiet for that many. Food was warm and pleasant looking. Tasted good. The attendants were alert, efficient, and congenial. Choice of movie was appropriate.

6 years ago

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Michael Taylor Long Beach, MS

Have used several times on longer cross country flights. Always a good experience ...... except when my luggage on a flight to Phoenix got there the next day. I was real professional in cargo shorts and flip flops.

6 years ago

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Amy Boren American Fork, UT

not a lot of leg room but the service is great. I have the delta credit card and I like the free bag perk and boarding early. They fly everywhere and I can find deals for flights most of the time.

7 years ago