When flying between major hubs like New York and London, choosing the right class can significantly impact your travel experience. Delta Air Lines' Premium Economy, branded as Premium Select, positions itself as a middle ground between standard economy and the luxury of Delta One (business class). As someone who has experienced this offering firsthand, here’s a realistic and comprehensive breakdown of its worth for this popular transatlantic route.

Comfort and Amenities: A Notable Upgrade from Economy

Seating Experience:

One of the most immediate benefits of Premium Select is its seating. The wider seats, enhanced recline, and generous legroom (approximately 38 inches of pitch compared to standard economy's 31-32 inches) make long-haul flights more comfortable. Footrests and adjustable headrests further enhance relaxation, especially on overnight flights. For an eight-hour journey like New York to London, this can mean the difference between arriving well-rested versus feeling cramped and fatigued.

Cabin Ambiance:

The Premium Select cabin is quieter and less crowded compared to the economy section. With fewer rows and attentive crew, the experience feels more personalized. Subtle touches, such as mood lighting and a dedicated lavatory for Premium Select passengers, add to the overall sense of exclusivity.

Amenity Kits and Extras:

Delta includes a premium amenity kit stocked with essentials like an eye mask, skincare items, and earplugs. Noise-canceling headphones are also provided, which, combined with the upgraded in-flight entertainment system, make for a more enjoyable journey.

Service and Dining: Enhanced but Not Luxurious

Dining Options:

Premium Select dining is undeniably an upgrade over standard economy. Meals are served on real china with stainless steel cutlery, and passengers are treated to a three-course meal, including appetizers, main courses, and desserts. However, the menu, while curated with seasonal options, can feel closer to an elevated economy experience rather than a full gourmet offering. That said, the complimentary alcohol and thoughtfully paired wine selections are a nice touch.

Priority Services:

Premium Select passengers enjoy SkyPriority perks, including expedited check-in, faster security screening, and priority boarding. These services streamline the often-stressful airport experience, particularly at busy hubs like JFK and Heathrow. Additionally, two free checked bags save time and money for those traveling with luggage.

Cost vs. Value: Is It Worth the Price Tag?

Pricing:

Premium Select fares for the New York-London route generally range between $1,750 and $3,400 for a round trip, compared to $750 to $2,000 for standard economy. The cost is roughly double that of economy but significantly less than Delta One, which can exceed $5,000.

Realistic Value Assessment:

Whether Premium Select is worth the additional cost boils down to your priorities. If comfort, reduced travel fatigue, and a more streamlined airport experience are crucial, the price premium is justified. For budget-conscious travelers, however, the step up from standard economy might not feel as significant, particularly if you’re able to manage a few hours of discomfort for a lower fare.

Comparisons: Delta Premium Select vs. Other Airlines

Legroom and Seat Comfort:

Delta Premium Select offers competitive legroom and seat dimensions, matching or exceeding rivals like United Airlines Premium Plus and American Airlines Premium Economy. Virgin Atlantic, however, edges out Delta with wider seats and a touch more sophistication in service.

Dining and Amenities:

While Delta’s meal presentation and amenities are commendable, airlines like Virgin Atlantic and Lufthansa often outshine Delta in terms of meal quality and cabin design. Nonetheless, Delta’s consistently strong customer service reputation helps mitigate this gap.

Customer Feedback: Honest Insights from an Experienced Perspective

Having flown in Premium Select, the upgrade from standard economy was noticeable but not groundbreaking. The extra space and recline made the overnight journey far more comfortable, and the quieter cabin environment felt premium. However, there were moments where the experience fell slightly short of expectations, particularly with meal quality that occasionally resembled economy offerings.

For travelers used to flying business class, Premium Select may feel like a compromise. On the other hand, those accustomed to economy will likely find the upgrade substantial and worthwhile for the transatlantic route.

Who Should Book Premium Select?

• Frequent Flyers Seeking Comfort: For regular travelers between New York and London, Premium Select strikes a good balance between affordability and comfort.

• Occasional Travelers: If this is a once-a-year splurge, the added comfort and amenities can enhance the experience, making the journey part of your trip rather tha just a means to an end.

• Budget-Conscious Comfort Seekers: For those unwilling to pay for Delta One but needing more than economy, Premium Select offers a middle ground that delivers on essential upgrades.

Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?

Delta Premium Select is a strong contender for those seeking a more comfortable experience without the hefty price tag of business class. It offers tangible upgrades in seating, service, and amenities, making it particularly appealing for long-haul flights like New York to London. However, travelers must weigh the benefits against the cost—while it delivers on comfort and convenience, it doesn’t quite reach the luxury of Delta One. For many, the investment will be worth it, particularly for overnight journeys where rest is a priority.

For those on the fence, a useful approach might be to monitor fares and consider upgrading during Delta’s bidding process closer to the departure date, which can sometimes yield significant savings on Premium Select tickets.