Delta to Block Middle Seat Thru Sept. 30

Delta Airlines says it will block the selection of middle seats and cap seating in every flight through Sept. 30, 2020.

“Reducing the overall number of customers on every aircraft across the fleet is one of the most important steps we can take to ensure a safe experience for our customers and people,” said Chief Customer Experience Officer Bill Lentsch. “Delta is offering the highest standards in safety and cleanliness so we’re ready for customers when they’re ready to fly again.”

Through Sept. 30, Delta will ensure more space for customers on all aircraft by capping seating at 50% in First Class; 60% in Main Cabin, Delta Comfort+, and Delta Premium Select; and 75% in Delta One to reduce the total number of customers on board.

Delta says all middle seats will continue to be shown as unavailable or not assignable when selecting seats via the Fly Delta app or online. It will also continue to block the selection of some aisle seats in aircraft with 2×2 seating configurations.

On routes where increasing customer demand is driving flight loads closer to the cap limit, Delta says it will try to upsize to a larger aircraft type or add more flights.

The airline also says it is extending waiver of change fees thru June 30.