To our valued customers:
Delta pilots take pride in providing our customers with the safe, reliable service that you deserve. As you travel with us this summer and beyond, we ask you to please remember the following:
As we welcome you aboard, we will continue to go above and beyond to get you safely to your destination. Delta prides itself on its premium product, and we want our customers to consistently receive the operational reliability you have come to expect when flying on Delta.
- The Pilots of Delta Air Lines
Book the First Flight of the Day: There is a better chance the aircraft and flight crew are in position for the first flight of the day. This minimizes the risk of cascading delays that often affect flights later in the day.
Avoid Tight Connections: Recommend 90 minutes domestic and 2.5 hour international to create “Buffer” for any possible delays. If you are checking a bag, traveling with children, or folks who may need extra time, be sure to build that into your planning.
Book directly with Delta: Third-party bookings can make it more difficult to change your itinerary if there is a problem.
Your Phone is Your Secret Weapon: Download and login to the Fly Delta app before you get to the airport. Enable notifications for updates on gate changes or delays.
Use your Digital Wallet:You can put your boarding pass into your phone’s digital wallet for easy access to the boarding pass.
Consider TSA PreCheck, CLEAR, Global Entry: Expedite your trip through security or through customs and immigration. Some credit cards offer a discount on the costs of these programs.
Make sure your luggage fitsand know what you can bring onboard. Some luggage may be too large to fit into the overhead bin. Not all aircraft have the same size overhead bins. Some international carriers and partners have different carry-on limits. You can bring one carry-on suitcase and one personal item.
Consider using Air Tags, Tile, etc.Always know where your luggage is. Consider putting an Air Tag, Tile, or other similar tracking device. Many airlines integrate their lost luggage systems with these apps.
Consider Carry-On Only:Bringing only a carry-on can simplify your logistics during periods of delays and cancellations. Consider what you are packing, how long your trip is, etc.
Stay Hydrated:Aircraft humidity is often below 20%, so stay hydrated with a water bottle. You can bring your own and fill it once you get through security.
Aircraft Temperatures can be Unpredictable:Sometimes the temperature is a bit warm, and sometimes it is on the cooler side. Dress in layers or bring a light jacket. It can take time to regulate the temperature on board.
Headphones and Eye Mask:Consider noise cancelling headphones or ear plugs for the low-frequency drone of the engines in flight. An eye mask can help block lighting if you need to get some sleep.
The U.S. Department of Transportation's official resource for air traveler protections, including your rights during delays, cancellations, and denied boarding.
FAA guidance on everything from carry-on rules to turbulence safety — straight from the agency that sets the standards.
Monthly data on airline performance, complaints, and on-time statistics. Make informed choices about who you fly with.
Know them and exercise them.
Had a bad experience? File an official complaint directly with the DOT. Every report helps hold airlines accountable.
You May Be Owed Compensation European law provides some of the strongest passenger protections in the world — including cash compensation for significant delays and cancellations. Know what you're entitled to.
Post-Brexit Britain maintains strong passenger protections. The UK Civil Aviation Authority explains your rights clearly and plainly.
The international framework governing air travel rights worldwide — relevant when your journey crosses multiple countries and jurisdictions.
Delayed or cancelled flight? AirHelp helps passengers claim compensation they're legally entitled to — quickly and without hassle.
The Air Line Pilots Association has been advocating for safer skies for over 90 years. See how your pilots are working to protect you — before, during, and after every flight.
A trusted consumer advocacy resource for travel disputes. If you've exhausted normal channels, Elliott Advocacy helps travelers navigate complaints and find resolution.
As we welcome you aboard, we will continue to go above and beyond to get you safely to your destination. Delta prides itself on its premium product, and we want to our customers receive the operational reliability you have come to expect when flying on Delta.
The Smart Traveler
Learn more about the status of Delta Pilots' contract negotiations at contract2026.org.