On my recent travel, experiencing economy class on two distinct airlines significantly influenced my journey.
In the world of budget air travel, the experience can vary greatly, especially when it comes to basic economy flights. After flying with both Delta and Alaska Airlines between the US and New York, I've found that the differences between the two carriers are notably significant.
When comparing Delta and Alaska Airlines' basic economy offerings, it's clear that each airline caters to different traveller preferences.
Delta Airlines, with its new Main Basic class, offers a more restrictive experience. Passengers can expect standard economy seats, with no additional perks, and strict change and cancellation policies. However, Delta excels in service, boasting a polished, tech-forward atmosphere, seatback entertainment screens, and better Wi-Fi.
On the other hand, Alaska Airlines provides a more relaxed and personable vibe. While seatback screens are not available, entertainment is streamed to personal devices. Alaska's economy product offers solid comfort, and the airline is renowned for its family-friendly policies and good value from paid lounge memberships.
Regarding the overall onboard experience, Delta leads with its premium, polished service, seatback entertainment screens, and better Wi-Fi. Alaska Airlines offers a simpler, more relaxed flight with friendly service and good comfort but relies on personal devices for entertainment and charges for Wi-Fi.
However, when it comes to basic economy specifically, Alaska Airlines' economy product remains more customer-friendly. Delta's Main Basic is more restrictive, with no mileage accrual and strict change/cancellation policies.
This year, I booked US domestic flights in basic economy with both Delta and Alaska Airlines. The Delta flight, on an Airbus A321neo, had several empty seats, while the Alaska flight, on a fully occupied Boeing 737-900, did not. I paid $175 (€150) for a basic economy flight with Delta from Salt Lake City, the capital of the US state of Utah, to New York. The seats on the Delta flight were larger.
In conclusion, if you prioritize in-seat entertainment, free Wi-Fi, and a premium, polished service, Delta's basic economy may be the better choice. If you prefer a relaxed, friendly flight atmosphere with solid comfort and family-friendly policies, especially on the West Coast route, Alaska Airlines may be more appealing, despite fewer in-flight tech perks.
What about the lifestyle of these budget airlines? When evaluating the basic economy offerings of Delta and Alaska Airlines, it's apparent that Delta caters to passengers who appreciate a premium, polished service, while Alaska Airlines favors a more relaxed and personable atmosphere.
