delta basic economy seat assignment

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Delta Air Lines: Basic Economy vs. Main Cabin — What Are the Differences?

James Larounis

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First Class

Premium select, delta comfort+, basic economy, why was basic economy introduced, standby and ticket changes, seat selection, earning miles and status credit, stand by and ticket changes, what about basic economy on other carriers, final thoughts.

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Basic Economy is the relatively new cheapest airline ticket you can buy, coming with a new set of restrictions that some flyers may not be used to. While Basic Economy seats are located in the same section of the plane as those who purchase traditional, full-fare seats, it’s important to understand the differences between Main Cabin and Basic Economy tickets.

Let’s compare Basic Economy and Main Cabin when flying on Delta Air Lines, review the benefits of each, and offer things to keep in mind while you go through the ticket purchase process. In many cases, you may want to purchase one ticket type over the other based on how you’d like to travel.

Overview of Delta’s Classes of Service

Delta has several classes of service that are offered on different flights and to different travelers. It’s important to review these class offerings to understand where Basic Economy and traditional Main Cabin fit in.

First class is offered on all narrow-body jets on routes in the U.S. and to Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean . On regional jets, these seats are usually laid out in a 1-2 layout, and on mainline planes, they are set in a 2-2 fashion.

First class comes with priority boarding, dedicated bins to stow bags, complimentary beverages, and on some flights, full meals depending on the route and time of day.

Delta One is Delta’s highest cabin of service on long-haul or premium flights . Delta One seats are all flat-bed seats and are offered on a variety of aircraft types, including 757s and  767s, to name a few.

These flat-bed seats are offered on most international services to Europe, Asia, Oceania, and Africa, and feature an upgraded meal service on china, lounge access, priority boarding, and more.  

Hot Tip: Want to see what it’s like to fly Delta One? Check out these flight reviews: Delta One Suites aboard the Airbus A350  and Delta One on a Boeing 767-300 .

Premium Select is Delta’s variation on Premium Economy , featuring a seat similar to the one in its domestic first class cabin.

These seats are featured on most wide-body aircraft and feature more personal space, seatback televisions, and upgraded meal service. While this cabin is roomier than coach, the service flow is similar to the Main Cabin offering.

Delta Comfort+ is Delta’s extra legroom seating , located in prime areas of the Main Cabin. These could be exit rows or bulkheads or other areas where there is additional room.

These seats come with complimentary alcoholic beverages and light snacks , though continue to be part of the Main Cabin. Elite members can generally select these seats for free or be upgraded to them shortly after booking.

For more information, check out our comparison of Delta Comfort+ vs. Delta first class .

Main Cabin features traditional economy seats and is located in the rear of the aircraft. These seats usually feature inflight entertainment (except on regional jets) and are where the majority of customers sit.

For explanatory purposes, Delta uses the same term as American Airlines for its economy class product, so be sure to know which airline you’re looking at when purchasing tickets.

Basic Economy is a ticket type that allows travelers to sit in the Main Cabin, with limited amenities and no advance seat allocation .

Basic Economy ticket holders will be assigned seats in the Main Cabin within 24 hours of departure, or at check-in, and users will not be able to designate which seat they sit in.

Basic Economy was created several years ago to appeal to the traveler who is not only price-sensitive but also one who doesn’t want to pay for extra services and add-ons. As many low-cost carriers, such as Frontier or Spirit, continued to win over customers, traditional legacy carriers had to change their business model to win over flyers who were going to other airlines.  

Some airlines, including Delta, used to include checked bags in their traditional fares. There was no restriction on seating assignments and anyone could upgrade if they had the means. As time passed, travelers realized they did not want to pay for services that they did not utilize, and fare segmentation was born.

Low-cost carriers worldwide began to break apart fares and charge a base rate with additional rates for things such as checked bags, seat assignments, upgrades, and even food.

What Does a Delta Basic Economy Ticket Include?

Delta’s Basic Economy tickets carry several important differences compared to standard Main Cabin tickets, so it’s important to note these restrictions so that you can travel smarter.

If you’re on a Basic Economy fare, you’re allowed to bring on the same amount of baggage as a Main Cabin traveler — a bag that fits under the seat in front of you and then a larger carry-on bag to fit in the overhead bin above your seat.

That said, Basic Economy passengers board last , so there may be limited overhead bin space to store bags — plan ahead and pack light if you’re on a Basic Economy fare .

Hot Tip: If you’re looking for more information about Delta’s baggage policies , explore our guide and learn some tips to cover any baggage expenses.

Basic Economy tickets are the most restrictive ticket option Delta has — there are no changes allowed on these trips under any circumstance. Main Cabin tickets now have no change fee where you can change your ticket’s destination, routing, or more for the cost of any fare difference. On a Basic Economy ticket, however, there’s no amount of money you can pay to change your ticket — if you must make a change, you’ll lose the full fare value of your ticket and will essentially start over from scratch.

If you wish to cancel your ticket and receive a credit, you’ll need to pay up to a $199 penalty and will receive the remaining difference as an eVoucher. Keep in mind, however, that most Basic Economy tickets will be under this amount, and you’ll likely forfeit the entire ticket value in most circumstances.

Basic Economy tickets are also not eligible for same-day standby or same-day changes , even for elite passengers.

The lesson here is to only purchase a Basic Economy ticket if you’re absolutely sure of your travel plans. If you’re not, purchase a standard Main Cabin ticket with the ability to make changes.

Basic Economy passengers are the very last passengers to board the aircraft . A Basic Economy passenger can avoid this by either being an elite member or a Delta-branded credit cardholder , which will allow them to board earlier.

Hot Tip: Delta-branded credit cards deliver benefits for Delta flyers, but other credit cards can, too. Our guide to the best credit cards for Delta flyers includes lounge access, priority boarding, and upgrades.

Main Cabin passengers are divided into 3 groups, just prior to Basic Economy.   Delta’s boarding zones and order are:

Basic Economy passengers do not get any choice of seats  and are randomly assigned seats at check-in.

For this reason, Basic Economy fares should be avoided by families who may wish to sit together as there’s no guarantee of any sort that you’ll be able to sit together.  

Bottom Line: If you wish to sit next to a particular person, do not purchase a Basic Economy ticket — purchase a Main Cabin ticket, instead.

Unfortunately, Basic Economy passengers cannot upgrade — either via a paid upgrade or as part of elite benefits. For long-haul flights, this could be a major issue.

Several scenarios where you could face this challenge include:

• Since all Delta Medallions receive complimentary upgrades, there’s always a reason to request the upgrade. However, even if the flight has empty seats you would otherwise be able to upgrade into, you won’t be able to upgrade your Basic Economy ticket.
• If you’re on a long-haul flight and there is an opportunity to upgrade using miles or a global upgrade, you won’t be able to do so.
• Passengers typically will receive upgrade offers during the ticketing process and after purchase, usually for a very good price. Even if it only may cost a few dollars more to upgrade, a Basic Economy passenger won’t be able to do so.

When you book a Basic Economy ticket, you’re among the last on your aircraft to be accommodated on other flights , as passengers who are on traditional Main Cabin tickets will get protected on alternative arrangements first.

Generally, elite status members will receive help no matter what ticket type they are on, but if you’re on a Basic Economy ticket without status, it may be difficult to get rebooked since other options may be full.

Hot Tip: If you’re a business traveler that needs to be in a particular city at a certain time, it may be better to book a Main Cabin ticket — that way if things go wrong, you’ll be accommodated much faster than someone on a Basic Economy fare.

Delta’s Basic Economy does not earn SkyMiles , Medallion Qualifying Miles, Medallion Qualifying Dollars, or Medallion Qualifying Segments.

Remember that because the fares are cheaper, you’ll need to purchase traditional Main Cabin tickets if you wish to earn status.

What Does a Delta Main Cabin Ticket Include?

When you purchase a traditional Delta Main Cabin ticket, you can bring on 2 carry-on bags: 1 to fit under the seat in front of you and 1 to put in the overhead bin.

You can also purchase checked bags, or additional checked bags if you get the first one for free.

You can change your ticket prior to departure for no additional fee .

Elites on Main Cabin tickets can standby for other flights at no charge, or do same-day changes for free, within their elite tier rules. If not free, they pay the applicable fee.

If you purchase a Main Cabin ticket, you’ll board with either Main Cabin group 1, 2, or 3 , depending on your elite tier, if any.

When you purchase a Main Cabin ticket, you can choose any non-Comfort+ seat in the Main Cabin , including aisles, windows, and middles. Unlike Basic Economy, you can select any seat in the Main Cabin, though some may come with charges depending on if they have extra legroom or not.

This is by far one of the best benefits of having a Main Cabin ticket — you can assure yourself of a halfway decent seat without worrying about being assigned a middle seat at check-in like Basic Economy tickets.

Here are the locations of all Delta Main Cabin seats on all aircraft (not including Comfort+), according to SeatGuru :

Here are the seat dimensions of Main Cabin on all Delta aircraft, according to SeatGuru:

Unlike Basic Economy tickets, all Main Cabin fares are eligible for upgrade :

• Elites members can list for complimentary upgrades
• You can pay for an upgrade to Comfort+
• You can use a regional upgrade or a global upgrade on longer flights however this will only upgrade you to Premium Select
• You can pay the fare difference between economy class and first class

Bottom Line: If you’re a Delta Medallion elite member, one of the biggest benefits of your status is upgrades. Don’t purchase a Basic Economy ticket if you wish to take advantage of these upgrades.

If your flight gets delayed or canceled, you will be rebooked ahead of Basic Economy customers, and receive priority for seats on other flights.

Unlike Basic Economy, you’ll continue to earn SkyMiles as well as Medallion Qualifying Dollars, Segments, and Miles. Delta penalizes passengers in this regard for having a Basic Economy fare.

Delta used to be one of the more generous carriers when it came to Basic Economy, however it has recently revised the Basic Economy program to become more restrictive.

• American and United will auto-assign seats when you check in within 24 hours of your flight. You may be assigned what’s considered an undesirable seat, and if you wish to move out of it, it may cost you. On Delta, you can choose what seats are left over once you have checked in.
• Most carriers except Delta offer award miles on basic fares, so regardless of how cheap your ticket is, you’ll still accumulate miles toward desirable awards.
• No carrier offers any upgrades or ticketing changes on basic fares (except for American Airlines AAdvantage members). If you need to make such a change, you need to buy a new ticket.

Basic Economy isn’t for everyone.

There are several types of people who should avoid Basic Economy :

• Elite status passengers may care about upgrades, in which case they’ll want to buy a regular fare.
• Those who make ticket changes often will want to buy a regular fare.
• Those who check bags will want to buy a regular fare.
• Those who prefer certain seats on the plane will want to buy a regular fare.

A Basic Economy ticket is perfect for budget-minded travelers who simply want to get between A and B and don’t care which amenities come with the ticket.

For rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles ® Gold American Express Card, click here . For rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles ® Platinum American Express Card, click here . For rates and fees of Delta SkyMiles ® Reserve American Express Card, click here .

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you get a carry-on with delta basic economy.

Yes! Similar to Delta’s traditional Main Cabin product, you are allowed to bring on 1 carry-on bag to be stowed in the overhead bin and 1 personal item to fit underneath the seat in front of you. Keep in mind that Basic Economy passengers are the last to board the plane, so there may be limited storage opportunities if the flight is very full.

What is the difference between Basic Economy and Main Cabin on Delta?

In short, Delta Basic Economy tickets do not include any upgrade opportunities, advanced seat selection, or checked baggage. If you normally check a bag, are an elite passenger who likes to upgrade, or a passenger who cares what seat you sit in, a Delta Basic Economy fare is not for you.

Does Basic Economy guarantee a seat?

On a Basic Economy ticket, you are always guaranteed a seat on the aircraft. Your seat selection will be limited until you check in for your flight, so at that time, the seats available may be in the very rear of the plane, in the middle of rows, or in other undesirable locations, but regardless of this, you will always be guaranteed a seat on the plane.

Does basic economy come with checked bag?

Basic Economy tickets do not come with a free checked bag. You’ll need to pay the required fees to check a bag if you do not hold elite status.

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About James Larounis

James (Jamie) started The Forward Cabin blog to educate readers about points, miles, and loyalty programs. He’s spoken at Princeton University and The New York Times Travel Show and has been quoted in dozens of travel publications.

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Worried about a middle seat with that basic economy ticket? Reserve a seat ⁠— for a fee

Two days before my American Airlines flight from Chicago to Las Vegas in June, I checked the airline's website to see how much they wanted for a seat assignment.

Yes, a seat assignment.

I was traveling on a basic economy ticket , and those no-frills tickets don't come with an advance seat assignment and carry other restrictions. The airline assigns you one at check in, so you never know where you'll end up on the plane.

Basic economy passengers who are afraid of getting stuck in a middle seat, or being separated from their traveling companions, have the option of selecting a seat for a fee. It's no different than the system used by discount airlines Spirit, Frontier and Allegiant , whose bare bones fares inspired major airlines to add basic economy tickets. 

The window for buying a seat with a basic economy ticket varies by carrier: United allows the purchase of a seat assignment during booking, while Delta and American only sell seats to basic economy passengers a week before the flight. Until July 2, American only allowed purchase 48 hours in advance on domestic flights. (American passengers buying international basic economy tickets can buy a seat when booking.)

My ticket to Las Vegas fell under the 48-hour policy. At that time, American's seat map showed a few options: a handful of $9 seats, including a couple of aisle seats and a couple of window seats and a few rows of "preferred'' seats closer to the front of the plane but without any extra legroom or other perks. The going rate for 17D, a "preferred'' aisle seat: $31. The priciest choice: $62 for an aisle seat in the exit row, one of American's Main Cabin Extra seats featuring more legroom and free drinks. 

There were no high-pressure tactics to get me to buy one. A note at the top of the seat map said: "If you don't want to pay for your seats now, we'll assign seats after you check in.''

I passed on all, as I usually do, on principle. (I also refuse to pay for Southwest Airlines' early bird boarding, one of the airline's versions of a seat fee.)

As a solo traveler, I've had good luck snagging an aisle seat on the basic economy flights I've booked. Until this trip.

The bad news greeted me when I checked in online: A middle seat. For 3 ½ hours. 

I wasn't worried about arm-rest hogs as much as I was about jumping over someone every time I had to use the restroom.

I didn't want to take my chances on a seat change at the airport on a Saturday in the middle of summer travel season , so I paid for a seat last minute. The $9 seats were long gone. I sprung for one of the Main Cabin exit row seats with free drinks they had peddled a couple of days before. It was a whopping $46, cheaper than it was when initially offered but still a fortune on a flight that was $200 one way in basic economy. The only reason I paid and didn't suck it up in a middle seat: I discovered remaining airline fee credits so I was reimbursed for the charge. (But that's another story.)

Lesson learned: Buy a seat the first time it's offered if a middle seat is going to ruin your vacation. Otherwise, save the money. My advice is exactly the same when you encounter seat-selection fees on a regular economy ticket. The fees are  everywhere, and the prices are on the rise .

Basic economy seat fees: four things to know 

1)  You don't have to pay for a seat assignment.  Airlines will assign you a seat for free when you check in online or get to the airport. You might not like the seat, and you will likely be separated from anyone traveling with you. Airlines say they block seats together for basic economy passengers traveling with young children, but travelers report varying success; ask at the airport or play the "will you trade seats with me?'' game on the airplane. The latter is becoming more difficult as passengers who have paid a fee for a particular seat (basic economy or regular economy) are reluctant to give it up.

2)  Seat fees vary by airline, flight, route, row and other factors. For a basic economy ticket from Los Angeles to Chicago in September, United last week was quoting seat fees from $12-$51 per person one way. The low end got you a middle seat or a window seat near the back of the plane, with an aisle seat there fetching $18. The $51 fee was an aisle seat in row 15. No extra legroom or other perks. 

Delta was charging a flat $29 one-way fee for a seat assignment on an Atlanta-New York flight this week.

American wanted $10-$43 one way for seats on a Dallas-Las Vegas flight this week.

3)  Do the math . Basic economy tickets are designed for price-sensitive travelers. Airlines do their best to scare passengers from buying them during booking, with pop-up windows and alerts galore about the restrictions, including no seat assignment, and listing the price difference over a less-restrictive regular economy ticket.

The gap between basic economy and regular economy varies widely. Sometimes the savings are well worth it, even with seat fees. In other cases, hefty seat fees can eat up any savings over a regular economy ticket.

Take the United flight from Los Angeles to Chicago: The fare difference between basic economy and regular economy was $80 round trip. Paying $13 each way for an aisle seat would still put you ahead $54. (Note, though, that United is the only airlines that forbids basic-economy passengers from bringing a standard carry-on bag . Only personal items that fit underneath the seat are allowed, and the policy is strictly enforced.)

Conversely, paying Delta $29 each way for a seat assignment on the Atlanta-New York trip would wipe out the $40 round trip savings between basic economy and regular economy.

My one-way American basic economy ticket from Chicago to Las Vegas was $35 cheaper than regular economy. A $9 seat fee would have still made it a deal, the $45 I ended up paying, not so much. 

One challenge here for ticket shoppers: only United lets you see the basic economy seat fees in advance on its website (though American does if it's an international flight.) So if assigned seats are critical to you, do the math using samples from this story..  

4)  Buying a regular economy ticket instead of a basic economy ticket does NOT guarantee you will get your pick of seats without paying a fee.

In their side-by-side comparisons of basic economy versus regular economy tickets on their websites, American, United and Delta each tout the opportunity to select your seat as a benefit of regular economy tickets. 

Read closely though and you'll see the qualifiers: American says "fee may apply,'' Delta says you can select "available seats'' and United says "complimentary seat assignments are offered when available.''

Depending on the flight and how far in advance you book, your only choices might be a free middle seat, or there may not be two seats together. The flights I spot-checked had free seats available when buying a regular economy ticket, but plenty of the seats were for sale.

Seat fees have become so prevalent, many travelers mistakenly think they are getting more legroom, a cushier seat or other perks by paying the fee. Those perks are reserved for travelers paying an even higher fare or seat price.

Delta Let Me Buy A Seat Assignment On A Basic Economy Ticket

Eventually, every airline started to offer a ticket class with more restrictions and less flexibility. Airlines have made tweaks here and there but as things stand now, Delta Airlines sells one of the most restrictive basic economy tickets out there.

Here’s what to expect when buying the cheapest ticket Delta has to offer:

With Basic Economy please remember refunds and upgrades are not available at any time. Basic Economy is best for those traveling by themselves with firm travel plans. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the restrictions so you know if Basic Economy is right for you.

• No seat(s) assigned until after check-in, not together
• No changes allowed*
• Cancelable for partial eCredit
• Last to board & not eligible for upgrades
• No miles earned; no credit toward SkyMiles Medallion Status

Delta makes sure you know you won’t get an assigned seat until after check-in. That’s exactly what we experienced the one time we’ve flown in Delta basic economy .

Call me a glutton for punishment or just plain cheap, but I booked another Delta basic economy ticket for a flight to Atlanta. I was traveling solo for a quick weekend and the price difference was enough to make me accept the restrictions.

I pulled up the Delta app just to make sure I hadn’t been logged out during an iOS upgrade. When I opened the app, I checked my flight.

While I was still 23 hours from check-in, the “Purchase Seat” tab was activated. Out of curiosity, I tapped the button.

There are 30 open seats on the flight. However, most of them are in first class or Comfort+ seats which are unattainable for an upgrade from my Basic Economy fare.

However, at the back of the plane, there are several available seats. 10 middle seats and one window to be exact. I took that to mean that I had more than a 90% chance of getting a middle seat on this flight.

I clicked on the single window seat and found that Delta would let me purchase it for $14.

Yes, I only have 44 SkyMiles in my account. I view that as an accomplishment. 🙂

I paid $14 for the seat at the back of the plane. Since I have Delta as my airline of choice on my AMEX Platinum Card, I’ll get the money back as part of the Airline Fee Reimbursement.

What was most surprising to me was that I was offered a seat assignment when booking a Basic Economy fare. Everything on Delta’s website and past experiences indicated that I wouldn’t get a seat assignment until at the gate. I’ve never had the option to pick a seat, even for a price.

We rarely book Basic Economy fares so I don’t know if this happens regularly or if Delta is testing out selling seat assignments, even if all you get to pick is from are the worst seats on the plane.

Does anyone else have experience being offered seat selection on a Delta Basic Economy ticket?

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I have read other experiences where some have said a week before they have been able to buy a seat.

I’ve seen some reports of the same 1-week timeframe but it’s not an official program.

I’ll be traveling in basic economy to Spain in December. Although at first I wasn’t allowed to select a seat in any of the four segments, somehow I was later able to select a seat for the two international legs.

“I paid $14 for the seat at the back of the plane. Since I have Delta as my airline of choice on my AMEX Platinum Card, I’ll get the money back as part of the Airline Fee Reimbursement.”

What is this fee reimbursement thing? I have a Delta Gold Amex – is this something I can access by making Delta my airline of choice?

The AMEX Platinum Card, which earns Membership Rewards points, has an airline fee reimbursement credit as a perk. The Delta AMEX cards, which earn Delta SkyMiles, do not have such a credit.

I usually travel Basic Economy (I’m military so I don’t pay for extras) but never pay for seat. They want you to pay for it, but all times I do check in almost last min since worst seats are given first. Or simply don’t and go to the counter and smile to agent and proceed to ask if there’s any “good” seat available and I can tell 100% I get decent seats for free. I know Delta is very restrictive with free upgrades but I don’t fight for that as soon I get a good seat (of course NEVER middle seat).

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Comparing basic economy fares across U.S. airlines

Update : Some offers mentioned below are no longer available. View the current offers here .

Southwest Airlines stands alone as the only major U.S. air carrier without a basic economy fare option or an a-la-carte fee structure.

Basic economy fares found their way into the big three U.S. mainline carriers a few years ago. Since then, the fares have also spread to Alaska, Hawaiian and even JetBlue.

In order to better compete with the ultra-low-cost carriers like Allegiant, Frontier and Spirit (and simply generate more revenue), the airlines got creative. With basic economy fares, the mainline carriers have more closely matched the fares of low-cost carriers by stripping out many of the inclusions you'd typically get with a regular economy ticket.

However, basic economy means different things to different airlines.

Related: Best credit cards for defeating basic economy

In this guide, I'll examine what you do and don't get with a basic economy ticket on various domestic carriers. Plus, we'll go over how the pandemic changes the equation.

Comparing basic economy fares

The information for the Allegiant World Mastercard, Frontier Airlines Mastercard, Hawaiian Airlines Mastercard, JetBlue Plus card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

What makes an economy class fare 'basic?'

Low-cost carriers Allegiant, Frontier and Spirit were the first U.S. carriers to offer a new kind of airfare that didn't include the ability to bring aboard a standard-sized carry-on without paying extra (a smaller "personal item" such as a backpack or purse is permitted, but it must be able to fit underneath the seat in front of you). This model is based on European discount airlines such as Ryanair and easyJet. Now, almost all of the domestic airlines apply many of those same rules to their own basic economy fare classes.

Another concept introduced by some ultra-low-cost carriers is the inability to select standard seats at the time of reservation, or even at check-in, without paying additional fees. This was copied by some of the major airlines as they introduced basic economy. Also, an ultra-low-cost carrier or a basic economy fare offered by a legacy airline may not allow you to make any voluntary changes — not even for a fee. Finally, basic economy often means that there are no permitted upgrades to passengers booked in a basic economy fare, even if they have elite status and are otherwise eligible.

What's changed due to the pandemic?

Due to the pandemic, every major U.S. airline is offering sweeping travel waivers that allow most tickets to be changed or voluntarily canceled for free. This includes basic economy tickets.

With the waivers in effect, every ticket, including those booked in basic economy, can be changed or canceled. Note that you won't receive a refund if you decide to cancel. Instead, you'll get a future travel credit with a firm expiration date.

When, and if, the waivers expire, basic economy tickets will revert to pre-pandemic change policies. Note that although most U.S. carriers have permanently eliminated change fees , that offer doesn't apply to basic economy tickets.

The rules outlined below don't factor in the additional flexibility airlines are offering due to the pandemic.

Airline basic economy rules

Alaska recently introduced basic economy that's not as punitive as many other airlines. While you won't be able to make changes or cancellations to your flights, you will be able to bring a carry-on bag. You'll also earn the full number of miles and can purchase seat assignments anytime after booking.

However, elites won't be eligible for waived change fees, same-day changes, upgrades or preferred seating. Elites still receive bonus miles, baggage allowances, check-in benefits and priority boarding.

If you are a non-elite and want to check a bag, make sure you have the Alaska Airlines Visa credit card since that card includes one free checked bag, regardless of your fare class.

This ultra-low-cost carrier is known for offering just a few flights a week between airports in small communities and major vacation destinations. Because of the limited flight frequencies that Allegiant offers, you'll have very few options if your trip is severely delayed or canceled for any reason.

When you book a flight on Allegiant, you can pay to choose a seat, including extra legroom seats. Otherwise, you're randomly assigned a seat at check-in. You can also make changes to your flight for $75, so long as your departure is more than seven days out. There are no changes within seven days. The charge for carry-on bags is between $10 and $75 each way.

Allegiant doesn't have a standard frequent flyer program, but it does offer a rewards credit card. You can read our review of the Allegiant World Mastercard from Bank of America . To sum it up, it's not a very compelling offer.

This Denver-based ultra-low-cost carrier can be an attractive option, but passengers need to be aware of its fees. The price of a carry-on bag starts at $30 each way and can be much more if you don't pay online in advance. Customers can pay for advanced seat assignments and seats with additional legroom, or are randomly assigned a seat. You will receive miles from your flight, but Frontier's miles expire after six months of no activity.

Frontier has a unique change fee structure that emphasizes booking your tickets early. Changes are free 60 days or more before departure and between $79-$119 for flights less than 60 days before departure. You'll get priority boarding if you hold the Frontier Airlines World Mastercard. Spending on that card can help you earn elite status, which in turn unlocks free seat assignments, free bags, etc.

JetBlue is the latest airline to offer basic economy fares. Plus, despite the pandemic, JetBlue has made its basic economy offering even more punitive.

Effective July 20, 2021, basic economy flyers will not be able to bring full-sized carry-ons , except for those seated in Even More Space seats, Mosaic members, unaccompanied minors and active-duty military members. The carrier's Blue Basic fare doesn't include seat assignments or checked bags, either.

JetBlue's basic economy tickets can be changed for $100 or $200, depending on your destination. You'll earn award miles at reduced rates, and you can bring a checked bag for free if you hold the JetBlue Plus Card.

Hawaiian also recently introduced a basic economy fare that's pretty similar to JetBlue's basic economy offering. You can't make seat assignments when booking your flight, but you will be able to select a seat when checking in.

You can bring a carry-on bag and personal item, but you can't make any changes or cancellations to basic economy tickets. You'll still earn the standard number of miles for Main Cabin flights and elites will get priority check-in and complimentary bags.

If you're a non-elite, consider getting the Hawaiian Airlines World Elite Mastercard since the card allows you to bring one free checked bag per person.

This is an airline that some people love to hate, yet it continues to profit and grow. Seat assignments start at $5, or you'll have a seat assigned to you at random when you check-in. (Pro tip: Splurge on the Big Front Seat if you can.) Ticket changes are $90 when made online, and for what it's worth, you do receive award miles for each flight.

If you have the Spirit Airlines World Mastercard, you'll always receive priority check-in and Zone 2 preferred boarding. You also have access to cheaper award tickets with the card.

American was the final legacy carrier to announce a basic economy offering , and during the pandemic, the carrier has made the offering even more flexible than before.

American used to restrict full-sized carry-ons on basic economy fares, but ultimately reversed course. Additionally, flyers can now purchase the following additional offerings ,

• Priority boarding
• Preferred and Main Cabin Extra seating
• Same-day confirmed flight changes

Elites can enjoy their benefits on basic economy tickets too, but they'll no longer earn elite-qualifying credit on these fares. Basic economy travelers can select seats in advance for a fee, or will have a seat assigned automatically at check-in.

Elite members and customers with a co-branded card, such as the Citi / AAdvantage Executive World Elite Mastercard and the Citi / AAdvantage Platinum Select World Elite Mastercard (see rates and fees), get priority boarding and free checked bags.

No customers will be able to make any changes to these tickets (unless flying to certain international destinations). Fortunately, customers will still earn miles on these tickets.

Delta was the first legacy airline to offer basic economy fares, so on the one hand, we can at least partially blame them for this trend. On the other hand, Delta's version of basic economy isn't all bad. You receive the same food and service that you would if you bought a regular economy ticket (which Delta calls Main Cabin). You also receive the same carry-on allowance as every other passenger — a full-size carry-on plus a smaller personal item.

Delta still awards redeemable miles and credit toward elite status, and if you have a Delta SkyMiles credit card from American Express, you'll still receive a free checked bag and priority boarding. Cards that include free checked bags and priority boarding include the Gold Delta SkyMiles® Credit Card from American Express card, the Platinum Delta SkyMiles® Credit Card from American Express and the Delta Reserve® Credit Card from American Express.

Delta's basic economy fares are non-refundable and non-upgradable, even if you're an elite. Elites can't select preferred seats or those with extra legroom. You can't even pay extra to choose your seat in advance to upgrade. But if you don't have Medallion status, there are few drawbacks to purchasing one of Delta's basic economy fares, especially if you hold a Delta SkyMiles credit card or are traveling on a regional jet.

United's version of basic economy is the most restrictive of the mainline carriers.

Travelers on a United basic economy fare can't carry on a full-sized carry-on bag, or even pay for the privilege, unless they have United elite status, are Star Alliance Gold members or are United MileagePlus cardholders. With United basic economy fares, there are no ticket changes at any price, and you'll earn reduced credit toward elite status (no Premier Qualifying Flights) and award miles.

Note that on transatlantic flights, your carry-on baggage allowance is the same as for standard economy tickets.

You can purchase a seat during booking or wait to be assigned a seat during check-in. However, if you're traveling as a group or family, you'll want to make sure to pre-purchase seats since United won't guarantee seating groups and families together.

To avoid some of the basic economy restrictions, you'll want to make sure that you have a co-branded United card. United Explorer Card members receive a free checked bag and priority boarding, while those with the United Club Infinite Card receive a second free checked bag, priority check-in, security and baggage handling.

Tips when booking basic economy

Don't rule it out.

Some travelers are repulsed by the idea of potentially being unable to bring a full-sized carry-on or be stuck in a middle seat. Still, it could be worth considering this option depending on the situation. For example, Delta still allows seat selection for free at check-in and permits free carry-on bags for basic economy fares. If you're making a quick trip with little luggage, you could potentially save hundreds of dollars compared to a standard economy fare.

Related: How to pack in a free personal item carry-on

Consider basic economy for short-haul flights and regional jet travel

It's not a great sacrifice for those with elite status to pass up the chance for an upgrade on a very short flight. And when it comes to the ultra-low-cost carriers, an ultra-low amount of legroom could be tolerable for a couple hours, especially when you're saving money on airfare. Plus, smaller regional jets seat four across at most and have fewer passengers, so you'll never be stuck in a middle seat or behind 180 other people slowly exiting the plane when you book a basic economy ticket.

Avoid them when traveling with families, for now

When traveling with small children, there doesn't seem to be any 100% guarantee of seats together if you don't lock in seat assignments yourself. So, either avoid basic economy or be prepared to lock in seat assignments, even if that means paying extra.

Related: How to get seats together as a family

Have the right credit cards

Carrying the right credit card can be the difference between paying additional bag fees when flying on a basic economy ticket or not. Each airline's offering is a bit different, but if you can get a free checked bag and priority boarding with a credit card, you're basically replicating a traditional economy experience without paying additional fees. Also, priority boarding goes a long way since you'll minimize the chances of you gate-checking your carry-on.

Have you ever flown a basic economy fare or with an ultra-low-cost carrier? What was your experience?

Updated 1/18/23

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Laag tarief met beperkingen

Bespaar met Basic Economy, maar vergeet niet dat terugbetalingen en upgrades op geen enkel moment beschikbaar zijn. Basic Economy is best for those traveling by themselves with firm travel plans. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the restrictions so you know if Basic Economy is right for you.

Keep in Mind, Basic Economy is Just the Basics

Basic Economy provides a value for solo travelers and light packers who don't anticipate changes to their travel plans, since trip flexibility is limited.

With Basic Economy, you'll enjoy:

• A Main Cabin seat
• Delta’s signature service
• Complimentary snacks and non-alcoholic beverages like Starbucks® coffee, tea, juice, sodas or water
• Connect to Delta Wi-Fi to book, change, or check the status of your flight on delta.com
• Complimentary access to in-flight messaging as well as hours of movies, shows and more on Delta Studio®

With Basic Economy, you’ll experience:

• Geen stoel(en) toegewezen tot na het inchecken, niet samen 
• No changes allowed for flights originating in the United States, Canada and the Caribbean*
• Cancelable for partial eCredit (cancellation charge applies)**
• Laatst aan boord en komt niet in aanmerking voor upgrades 
• No miles earned; no credit toward SkyMiles Medallion Status †
• No entry into a Delta Sky Club is permitted, regardless of access method

Know the Details on Basic Economy

Other limitations, seat assignment ††.

*Ticket changes not allowed after the Risk-Free Cancellation period for flights originating in the United States, Canada or the Caribbean.

**For tickets issued for travel originating in Korea, tickets will be refunded to original form of payment after deducting the cancellation fee. For tickets issued for travel originating in  Europe , no change or cancel is permitted for tickets issued on or after maart 21, 2024 (€200 for tickets issued prior to that date, and €150 for tickets issued on or after februari 23, 2023). For tickets issued for travel originating in the  United Kingdom , the cancellation fee and change fee is £200 for tickets issued on or after februari 23, 2023 (£150 for tickets issued prior to that date). For tickets issued for travel originating in  Africa ,  the Middle East and India , no change or cancel is permitted for tickets issued on or after maart 21, 2024 ($200 for tickets issued prior to that date, and $180 for tickets issued on or after februari 23, 2023). Excludes tickets issued for travel originating from Israel, South Africa, Ghana, Nigeria and Senegal issued on or after maart 21, 2024 where the change or cancel fee is $200. For tickets issued for travel originating in Mexico where the destination is Europe, the United Kingdom, the Middle East, India or Africa (excluding travel to Israel, South Africa, Ghana, Nigeria and Senegal where no change or cancel is permitted), the cancellation fee is $199 for tickets issued on or after maart 21, 2024 (no change or cancel allowed for tickets issued prior to that date). Excludes tickets issued for travel originating in Mexico for travel to North America, South America, the Caribbean, and the Asia Pacific region, which cannot be canceled or changed. Check your ticket along with the  Baggage & Travel Fees  page to view any fees that apply to Basic Economy tickets. 

†Not eligible for MQD earn, paid or complimentary access or upgrades to premium seats, including to Delta Comfort+® or Preferred Seats; and no paid access to Priority Boarding.

†† Seat assignments can be purchased in advance for a fee or will be assigned for free at the airport after check in or at the gate. At this time, seat assignments can be purchased via Reservations, Airport Customer Service, Delta.com and the FlyDelta App.

The seat selection fee is per seat, per flight segment and is subject to availability. At this time, seat assignment purchase is only available for wholly domestic flights. Aircraft and seat features differ according to flight type/destination/aircraft. Please note that any fees paid for a seat assignment are non-refundable, non-transferable, and are limited to “select seats” – preferred seats cannot be purchased.

With the Basic Economy fare, you are not guaranteed a seat next to traveling companions, including family members or groups. We reserve the right to assign or reassign a Basic Economy seat at any time, even after boarding the aircraft, for operational, safety or security reasons. The final decision resides with the ground staff and operating crew on the day of the flight. Refunds will be issued to any reassigned customer if the customer is not moved to a comparable or better seat and no MQDs will be awarded.

U kunt uw ticket na de 24-uurs risicovrije annuleringsperiode niet meer wijzigen of terugbetaald krijgen. Passengers are not eligible for earning miles in the SkyMiles® Program, earning credit towards Medallion Status; paid or complimentary access or upgrades to premium seats or products from Basic Economy, including to Delta Comfort+ or Preferred Seats; and no paid access to Priority Boarding. Uitzonderingen kunnen van toepassing zijn wanneer u Light of Economy Light vliegt op niet door Delta uitgevoerde vluchten. Miles and MQDs will not be awarded for seat fees.

We have answers. Explore our frequently asked questions and learn more about seats.

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Basic Economy   

The following information and guidelines are provided to help our travel partners understand and identify Basic Economy fares.   Topics include:

Basic Economy - Overview

How to identify basic economy fares, basic economy waiver assistance, fare shopping, low fare finders, and gds or self- booking tools, voluntary changes and refunds, seat selection, basic economy overview chart, additional key points.

• Basic Economy Market List

Basic Economy (E booking class) is Delta’s value-fare product for price-driven customers offering limited flexibility. Customers who purchase a Basic Economy fare enjoy the same flight experience as Main Cabin customers, including Delta’s world-class service, a Main Cabin seat, complimentary snacks, meals, non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages (depending on flight distance), Wi-Fi for purchase and free access to hours of movies, shows and more on Delta studio, but with restrictions related to the ticket transaction.

Basic Economy Restrictions:

• Seat assignments are available for purchase starting seven days from departure until 24 hours prior to departure; pricing will vary per trip and may be purchased segment by segment. Otherwise, seat assignments are only available after check-in or at the gate for no fee. 
• Passengers traveling together, including families, may not be seated together
• Not being eligible for same-day changes or ticket refunds
• Boarding in the last zone
• Overhead bin space may be limited (checked luggage fees do not apply for gate-checked carry-ons)
• Not changeable unless noted in the fare rule
• For tickets issued on/after Dec. 9, 2021, for travel on/after Jan. 1, 2022, customers may cancel their reservation for a cancellation charge and apply the remaining value toward the purchase of a new ticket. The reservation associated with the original Basic Economy ticket must be canceled prior to departure or the full value of the ticket is forfeited. Check the fare rules to confirm cancellation charge and eligibility. 
• Not eligible for paid or complimentary upgrades or preferred seats, even with SkyMiles® Medallion® Status. 
• For tickets issued prior to Dec. 9, 2021, or for tickets issued on/after Dec. 9, 2021, for travel through Dec. 31, 2021, Medallion Members earn miles, Medallion Qualification Miles (MQMs), Medallion Qualification Segments (MQSs) and Medallion Qualification Dollars (MQDs – U.S.-based Members only).
• For tickets issued on/after Dec. 9, 2021, for travel on/after Jan. 1, 2022, no mileage or Medallion status is earned.
• Not eligible to combine with other Delta fares.

Additional information can also be found  here   on delta.com.

BACK TO TOP

The below information outlines how you can identify Basic Economy fares:

• The booking code for Basic Economy fares will be “E” class; however, the fare basis code may indicate X, V or other classes.
• Fares identified via a "B" in the 2 nd to last position of the Fare Basis Code for all markets, except Europe, but including UK point of origin fares
• Europe point of origin fares will have “LR” in position 5&6 of the fare basis code, for tickets issued for travel before April 1, 2020
• Effective for travel on/after April 1, 2020, Europe point of origin fares will have “L” in position 7 of the fare basis code
• Effective for travel on/after April 1, 2020, Africa/Middle East point of origin will have “R” in position 7 of the fare basis code  
• The Basic Economy fare will require both ‘E’ Class and the class of service of the fare basis code to be available (dual inventory check).
• Fare type codes EOU, ERU and PFD are used to identify Basic Economy.
• Fare type code PRU is used to identify Basic Economy for exit Europe to the U.S., Canada and Mexico.

View complete information regarding   Delta’s Fare Basis Code structure  used to identify Basic Economy fares.

Additional Information 

Agencies or corporate accounts may elect to suppress or inhibit Basic Economy fares from their customer booking tools. Corporate customers desiring to suppress or inhibit Basic Economy Fares should contact their agency.  Agencies with questions on the latest suppression capabilities provided by a GDS should contact their GDS provider.

Important:  If a travel agent makes a reservation using a Basic Economy fare and ends the PNR, then decides they want to use a higher fare (not a Basic Economy fare) so that their customer can get an advance seat assignment, they must cancel the original reservation and rebook the new itinerary for the higher fare in a new PNR, prior to ticketing the original reservation.

Basic Economy fares use dual inventory when pricing an itinerary. To qualify for a Basic Economy fare, dual inventory requires both the Main Cabin fare class of service (e.g. K) and the Basic Economy fare class of service (E) to be available at time of booking  and  ticketing. 

Under certain conditions, AFKLDL Trade Support may assist qualifying Travel Agencies with ticketing a reservation when the Main Cabin class of service is no longer available at time of ticketing.

If the required classes were available at the time of booking, but the Travel Agency didn’t ticket immediately, it is possible that the Basic Economy fare will not price at the time of ticketing. Because both classes of service for dual inventory (e.g. K and E) are no longer available, the result will most likely be a higher fare because only a higher booking class is available (e.g. U).

If this happens, qualifying Travel Agencies may contact AFKLDL Trade Support and request a waiver to issue the ticket for the original fare quote at the time of booking, provided the below conditions are met:

• Basic Economy booking needs to be issued on Delta (006), Air France (057) or KLM (074) ticket stock.
• No changes have been made to the original PNR.
•  All fare rules for the Basic Economy fare, including advanced purchase and ticketing time limit, must be met.
• The fare is still valid.

The Travel Agency will need to manually store the original fare to issue the ticket.

If Basic Economy is not suppressed, when using certain self-booking tools or low-fare finder functionality that search for the lowest fares, it is important to note the following:

• Basic Economy will likely be returned in markets with availability, as it is typically the lowest fare.
• To shop for Delta products beyond Basic Economy that are eligible for advanced seat assignments and full Medallion benefits, travel agents should consult the GDS or self-booking tool provider to determine the most effective entries and processes.
• Basic Economy fare rules are published and available via the GDS.
• Interline combinations are only permitted with partner basic fare products.  Additionally, combining Basic and non-Basic Economy segments is not permitted.
• Like other fares and based on competitive needs, Basic Economy fare rules may include advance purchase requirements, minimum or maximum stays, and in some cases, Saturday night stays.
• Markets with a Basic Economy fare offering are subject to change without notice.
• Basic Economy fares are not eligible to make same-day confirmed or same-day standby travel changes, regardless of Medallion or other elite status.
• Non-refundable, except due to involuntary cases such as Irregular Operations (IROPS).
• Not changeable unless noted in the fare rule.
• ​Customers may cancel their reservation for a charge and apply the remaining value toward the purchase of a new ticket.
• The remaining value must be used within the validity of the original ticket
• For travel within the 50 United States, Canada, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands or for travel between the United States or Canada and Caribbean, Central America, and Mexico there is a $99 cancellation charge. Check the fare rules to confirm cancellation charge and eligibility.
• For most long haul international travel there is a $199 cancellation charge; however, cancellation charge amount may vary internationally, and some exceptions apply for international points of sale. Check the fare rules to confirm cancellation charge and eligibility .
• Or the equivalent in miles if ticket was purchased with miles.
• To qualify, the reservation associated with the original Basic Economy ticket must be canceled prior to departure. Cancellations are available anytime post-purchase up to departure. No Show forfeiture policy is in effect, resulting in no remaining value if the reservation is not canceled prior to departure.
• If the cancellation charge exceeds the ticket price, no value remains on the ticket; the customer will not be asked to pay the remaining amount of the cancellation charge.
• Customers can work with their Travel Agency to apply the value towards new travel. Full details can be found in the Policy Library under Self-Service Exceptions . 
• The fee is nonrefundable; however, seat assignments may be changed after purchase (i.e. from 30A to 25C).
• Seat assignment purchases may be made on delta.com or via Global Sales Support or through Delta Reservations. 
• Basic Economy seat assignment purchases are also available via Travelport (Worldspan, Apollo, Galileo) and Amadeus GDS
• All other Basic Economy fare restrictions still apply.
• Fee is subject to change without notice.  
• For customers who do not wish to purchase a seat assignment, a seat will be assigned in the Main Cabin after check-in.
• Delta Comfort+®and Preferred Seat purchase will not be made available to Basic Economy fares, for purchase or assignment.

Basic Economy fares are not eligible for paid, complimentary or discounted upgrades Delta Comfort+® or paid or complimentary upgrade to Preferred Seats, regardless of Medallion or other elite status. However, Medallion Members can still receive these benefits when traveling on a Main Cabin fare.

Baggage fees are assessed in U.S. domestic markets, U.S.-Europe markets and U.S.-Latin America and the Caribbean markets for Basic Economy fares. Exceptions apply, click here for details.

Please note:

• The Basic Economy fare for travel between the U.S., Canada or Mexico and Africa (excluding North Africa*) and the Middle East will offer a first checked bag for free and a second checked bag for a fee of USD $100.00.
• The Basic Economy fare for travel between the U.S., Canada or Mexico and Europe (including Turkey and certain Eastern Europe (Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia and Ukraine) will offer a first checked bag for a fee of USD $75.00 and a second checked bag for a fee of USD $100.00 
• The Basic Economy fare for travel between the U.S., Canada or Mexico and Australia will offer a first checked bag for free and a second checked bag for a fee of USD $100.00

*For the North Africa markets of Algeria, Tunisia and Morocco:

• The Basic Economy fare for originating from the U.S. to North Africa will offer a first checked bag for a fee of USD $75.00 and a second checked bag for a fee of USD $100.00
• The Basic Economy fare for originating in North Africa to the U.S. will offer a first checked bag for free and a second checked bag for a fee of USD $100.00
• The Basic Economy fare for travel between CA/MX  and North Africa will offer a first checked bag for free and a second checked bag for a fee of USD $100.00
• Basic Economy customers will board last; access to overhead bins may be limited.
• Priority Boarding for purchase as a Trip Extra/Travel Extra will not be offered for Basic Economy fares.
• Medallion Members, others with elite status, and Delta SkyMiles American Express credit card holders continue to enjoy their boarding benefits.

Basic Economy FAQs

For additional details, or to compare seat options, please visit delta.com.

Medallion Members

When flying on a Basic Economy fare, Medallion Members will continue to enjoy waived checked baggage fees, Priority Check-in, and Priority Boarding. However, please note Medallion Members will not receive paid or Complimentary Upgrades when flying on a Basic Economy fare.

For more details, please visit  delta.com. 

• If a GDS, agency or corporate account has elected to suppress or inhibit the Basic Economy fare from their customer booking tool, our updated Basic Economy product will be suppressed.
• Customers that purchase a Basic Economy fare will travel in Delta’s Main Cabin and experience the same superior on-board experience as customers that purchase a Main Cabin fare. To view complete details, terms and conditions of Delta’s Basic Economy product, visit delta.com .

Basic Economy Markets                     

Basic Economy fares are broadly available in U.S. Domestic markets, markets between the U.S. and Latin America,  between the U.S. and Europe, from Australia to North America (US/CA/MX) for Australia Point of Sale and from certain countries in Africa, the Middle East, Turkey and certain Eastern Eropean markets to the U.S. for Africa, the Middle East , Turkey and Eastern Eropean Points of Sale. Basic Economy is also selectively available in other markets. All Delta fares are available real-time with the Airline Tariff Publishing Company (ATPCO) and visible in the GDS.

Partner Basic Fare Products

Delta's partner airlines may offer their own basic fare products similar to Delta’s Basic Economy fares. For additional details, please visit their respective websites. 

Air France and KLM - Business Solutions

Aeromexico - Aeromexico Business

Korean Air - KALMATE

Virgin Atlantic - Virgin Atlantic Partner Hub

December 13, 2021

• About this Site

• Philadelphia

Delta: Philadelphia – Barcelona, Spain. $520 (Basic Economy) / $740 (Regular Economy). Roundtrip, including all Taxes

This site is part of an affiliate sales network and receives compensation for sending traffic to partner sites, such as CreditCards.com. This compensation may impact how and where links appear on this site. This site does not include all financial companies or all available financial offers.

A good sale to Barcelona. Pricing will vary slightly depending on routing.

The $740 fare includes advance seat assignment, a normal size carry-on and one checked bag.

Delta / Air France / KLM Royal Dutch also have a $520 fare, but it is a Basic Economy fare with restrictions. Delta / Air France / KLM Royal Dutch International Basic Economy fares:

• DO NOT allow for advance seat assignments.
• DO NOT include checked bags – they are $75 each way for the 1st bag and $100 for the 2nd
• DO NOT allow for changes
• DO NOT allow for cancellations – so if you cancel after the 24 hour risk free period, the Basic Economy version will have no value for future travel
• DO NOT allow for mileage earning
• Most online travel agencies are not displaying Air France / KLM Royal Dutch Basic Economy / Economy Light fares as such.

Sign up for our Real Time Newsletter to receive economy class deals for your city about an hour before they are even posted on our website and social media channels - all for about a nickel a day.

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La Sagrada Familia, Barcelona, Spain – Photo: Boris Kasimov via Flickr , used under Creative Commons License (By 2.0)

Sample Travel Date:

• May 7th – 14th
• This is just ONE SAMPLE travel date, for more availability, please follow the “Fare Availability” and “How to Search for Availability” instructions below

Fare Availability:

• Valid for travel in early May. A Sunday stay is required. Availability is limited. Must purchase at least 3 days in advance of departure
• Please note that while this fare is valid at time of posting, if this post is more than two days old, the fare is likely gone.

How to Search for Availability:

• This is just to search for availability. To buy your tickets, scroll down to “How to Buy” section of this post
• Origin: PHL
• Routing Codes : DL DL
• This is instructing Matrix Airfare Search by ITA Software to search for the Basic Economy fare. Use those dates on Delta and you will be presented with the option to upgrade to the regular economy fare.
• Destination:   BCN
• Extension Codes : maxconnect 300
• (Click on Advanced Codes link to enable advanced routing code input)
• Select “See calendar of lowest fares”
• Duration “3-10” (This is just a sample, you can use any 7 day date range like 3-10, 7-14 etc)
• Beginner’s Guide on How to Use Matrix by ITA Software
• How to Read Airfare Rules and Use It to Your Advantage
• The Matrix Airfare Search by ITA Software search page should be like below when all values are inputted

• You cannot buy tickets using Matrix Airfare Search by ITA Software. To buy, follow our instructions in the “How to Buy” section below.

Fare Class:

• E (Basic Economy)
• V (Regular Economy)

Elite Qualifying Dollars:

• PHL – ATL (Atlanta) – BCN (Barcelona) – ATL – PHL
• Not permitted
• How to Take Advantage of a Stopover
• Miles Flown: 10,472 miles or 5.0 cents per mile (Basic Economy) / 7.0 cents per mile (Regular Economy)
• Redeemable Miles: 3,155 miles

How to Buy:

• Book on Delta with dates found on Matrix Airfare Search by ITA Software.

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Background Information:

• Visa: US Citizens – Not required. Other nationals, check the TIMATIC Visa Database
• Currency: Euro (EUR). $1USD = 0.93 EUR

Tips for saving when using credit cards at international destinations:

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• How to Avoid International Data Roaming Charges

For more of the latest cheap Philadelphia Flight Deals:

• Go to the The Philadelphia Flight Deals page

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You might also like

Delta: Philadelphia – Bilbao, Spain. $469 (Basic Economy) / $619 (Regular Economy). Roundtrip, including all Taxes

American: Philadelphia – Dallas (and vice versa). $70 (Basic Economy) / $79 (Regular Economy). Roundtrip, including all Taxes

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Ask a Travel Nerd: What’s the Deal With Basic Economy?

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Seat assignments have nothing to do with getting bumped from a flight.

Every airline has its own rules for what basic economy actually means.

You can’t change or cancel most basic economy fares.

Humanity remains in the dark about so many great mysteries. What is consciousness? Are we the only intelligent life in the cosmos? And what’s the difference between main cabin and basic economy airfare?

I’ve written a lot about basic economy, explaining when to book it , how much it saves and why the airlines themselves don’t really want you to book these low-priced fares. But the topic remains a mystery for many, including this column’s most devoted readership: my family.

I booked a basic economy flight for my nephew recently and, judging from my family’s reaction, you’d think I sent him to Siberia. “What if he’s bumped off his flight?” they asked. “Huh?” I responded.

To be fair, airlines have made the rules and fees associated with basic economy fares extraordinarily complicated, so nobody should feel bad for being confused. But there are some common misconceptions about basic economy fares that are worth clearing up before considering that low-cost ticket for your next flight.

Misconception 1: You might not get a seat

If you haven’t flown much in the past few years, you might have missed a major change in how airlines handle seat assignments. In the olden days, you’d buy a ticket, pick a seat and that was it. Now, seat assignments are treated like a perk, with fees and restrictions applied to the mere action of selecting any seat at all.

These confusing fees are baked into the basic economy game as well. Other than American Airlines, all major U.S. airlines severely restrict seat assignments during the purchase of a basic economy fare.

Let’s break down what this actually means: On most airline basic economy tickets, you won’t be able to select your seat ahead of time. Instead, you’ll be assigned one at check-in or the gate.

So you're not any more likely than any other passenger to get bumped from the flight. Your basic ticket confirms that you'll get a seat on the plane — it just doesn’t confirm which seat that will be.

Misconception 2: The basic economy experience is the same on every airline

I recently did an in-depth analysis of U.S. airlines' basic economy rules and was shocked by how many differences I found. For starters, some give these fares another name. JetBlue calls them Blue Basic. Alaska calls them Saver. (Annoying, I know.)

More importantly, the airlines have completely different rules for trip flexibility, how miles are earned, how standby is managed and how much they upcharge for main cabin fares.

Here's a look at how the price differences vary between basic economy and main cabin tickets:

There's a $33 difference in price between the highest and lowest cost markup.

Note: American Airlines is excluded from this list because, weirdly, we couldn't find enough basic economy fares on American. (This is a good thing and means the cost of an American flight in search engines might be significantly lower than the effective cost of other airfare.)

I further boiled down all of the differences to a simple 5-point rating system to show which basic economy ticket is least basic.

American came out on top.

These ratings are helpful for determining which basic economy fares to avoid and which to target. They're not very useful, however, for understanding the underlying rules. If you often fly with, say, Delta, and manage to wrap your head around its rules for basic economy, that won’t help you understand whether to book a similar fare on Alaska.

Unfortunately, there’s no way to say “Basic economy means X.” Instead, think of it more like: “Basic economy on Y airline means X.”

Misconception 3: You can change or cancel basic economy tickets for free

There was a lot of hoopla in the travel world last year when most major U.S. airlines eliminated change and cancellation fees . You might have heard this news and determined, understandably, that it meant that airlines had indeed eliminated change and cancellation fees.

But there's a big caveat that many stories overlooked: These policies don't apply to basic economy fares. Instead, and quite specifically, most basic economy fares can't be changed or canceled — period.

This distinction is major, and is now the biggest reason to pay the upcharge for a main cabin fare. Unless you’re absolutely sure of your travel plans, it’s likely worth paying more for an effectively refundable main cabin fare to avoid the potential of having to book an entirely new basic economy ticket.

Basic economy, recapped

If you feel overwhelmed or confused about what is basic economy, take heart. I literally do this for a living, and every time I book airfare, I twist myself in knots over whether to buy basic economy or upgrade to main cabin. It’s confusing by design.

Yet if you understand some common points of confusion, you'll be ahead of the bulk of other travelers. You're not at greater risk of getting bumped, the basic economy experience will vary airline to airline and, perhaps most importantly, most basic economy fares can't be changed or canceled.

Does that make sense, Dad? Err … dear readers?

Have a question about travel? How to use points and miles? Send your questions to [email protected] . Dad: You can still send your questions to my personal email.

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