By Shawn Gallagher
Delta recently made changes to its boarding process. Although it may seem a bit confusing, understanding the process will make your trip more comfortable, as you’ll know what to expect at the gate.
Let’s go over Delta’s boarding process.
Overview
Delta has 8 boarding groups, which they call boarding Zones. Pre-boarding includes passengers who require assistance, active U.S. military and Delta 360 passengers.
Premium cabins generally get priority over SkyMiles status holders. Diamond Medallion members board in Zone 2, but the rest board in Zone 4 or 5.
| Zone | Boarding Pass Type |
| Pre-boarding | Delta 360 Active U.S. Military members with valid ID Passengers requiring assistance |
| 1 | Delta One First Class |
| 2 | Diamond Medallion Delta Premium Select Passengers with strollers and car seats |
| 3 | Delta Comfort+ |
| 4 | Platinum Medallion Gold Medallion Skyteam Elite Plus LATAM Pass Black Signature, Black, Platinum Elite WestJet Rewards Platinum, Gold Elite |
| 5 | Silver Medallion Delta Corporate Delta Skymiles Gold, Platinum, Reserve Amex Card Members Skyteam Elite LATAM Pass Gold+ Elite WestJet Rewards Silver Elite |
| 6 | Main Cabin Skymiles Passengers |
| 7 | Main Cabin Non-Skymiles Passengers |
| 8 | Basic Economy |
A similar chart like this can be found on Delta’s website. This is generally what the boarding process will be, although each flight will look a little different due to varying aircraft configurations.
As you can see, you can still board in an earlier Zone through status with Skyteam partners, WestJet, and LATAM.
Also, note that signing up for a Delta SkyMiles account is free. Just by being a member, you’ll get Zone 6 boarding and free wifi on domestic flights.
How To Get Priority Boarding With Delta
Just like other airlines, there are several ways to get yourself priority boarding for a Delta flight.
SkyMiles Elite Status
Having elite status with Delta’s SkyMiles program will get you early boarding. Diamond members board in Zone 2, Platinum and Gold at 4, and Silver at 5.
Although Zones 4 and 5 aren’t the highest, they’re still early enough that you’ll board before the majority of passengers do. This is more than enough time to secure space in the overhead bins for your carry-on luggage.
Related: What Is The Point Of Priority Boarding?
Fly Premium Cabins
Booking a premium cabin will also get you in an early Boarding Zone. First class when flying domestic, and Delta One when flying international will get you to the very beginning of boarding in Zone 1. Premium Select is next at 2, and even Comfort Plus will let you board in Zone 3.
These premium cabins clearly get you in higher groups compared to the Boarding Zones status holders get. In particular, Zone 3 for Comfort Plus is very nice.
Related: Is Comfort Plus On Delta Worth It? Tokyo To Detroit Review
Credit Card Holders
Although not too high, having a Delta SkyMiles Credit Card will get you to Zone 5.
This is still early enough that you won’t have to worry about checking your carry-on bag at the gate.
Bottom Line
Passengers flying a premium cabin get the most priority when boarding a Delta flight. Status holders still do board earlier than Main Cabin, which is early enough to secure space in the overhead bins and avoid the longest lines.
Understanding this boarding process and knowing what to expect will no doubt make your travels less stressful.
All photos taken by the author.