Delta SkyMiles mileage members and elites, both groups that we imagine get pretty grumpy about their programs at times, now have something to smile about.
Delta is now in the middle of increasing First Class seats on its 19 MD-90s (from 12 seats to 16), and on its 14 B767-300s (from 24 seats to 30). That job is to be completed by the end of June 2011.
Together the additions will give elite and mileage members access to 160 (28%) more seats in First Class on these two aircraft, which means more upgrade and award inventory and more opportunities for elites to receive free upgrades. Keep in mind the flights and routes in the chart to the right when booking travel in July and thereafter for a better chance to receive an elite upgrade.
Connections
Try to make connections to flights using these aircraft. Flying from Boston to Los Angeles, you can connect in Atlanta, Cincinnati, Detroit, Memphis, or Minneapolis. If you go via Detroit (9am departure on DL187, 12 First Class seats) and connect to DL1719 (B737-800 with 16 First Class seats), your upgrade odds are 87% less than if you take DL1401 to Atlanta at 6am and connect to DL1655. The former has 24 First Class seats, the latter 30.
American, Continental, United, and US Airways mileage members
Even if you have no Delta SkyMiles, you can take advantage of this increase in First Class inventory by transferring credit-card points from Amex Rewards, Diners Club, and Starwood to Delta.
Routes on which Delta uses these aircraft:
Delta Routes with More First Class Seats
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