As an experienced traveler navigating the complexities of airfare options, I’ve learned that understanding each fare class can save you hundreds of dollars and avoid unexpected fees. Whether you’re weighing the pros and cons of Basic Economy or Main Cabin, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know (877-297-0699).

Table of Contents

1.  Delta Fare Classes Explained

2.  Non-Refundable vs Refundable Tickets

3.  Finding Delta’s Best Fare Finder Tool

4. Delta Pay Later & Payment Options

5.  Changing Name on Delta Ticket

6.  Wrong Passenger Details? What You Can Do

7.   24-Hour Risk-Free Cancellation

8.  Understanding Companion Certificates

9.  FAQs

Delta Fare Classes Explained

Delta operates several fare buckets—each with its own rules on seat selection, baggage, and refunds:

1. Basic Economy

Seat selection: Assigned at check-in (or paid upgrade).

Baggage: Carry-on allowed; checked bags incur bag fees.

Changes/Cancellations: Non-refundable; changes incur full fare difference plus fees.

2. Main Cabin

Seat selection: Free at booking for standard seats.

Baggage: Includes one free checked bag on many U.S. routes.

Changes/Cancellations: Ticket is refundable for a fee; change fees apply based on route.

3. Comfort+

Extras: Extra legroom, premium snacks, priority boarding.

Refundability: Behaves like Main Cabin for changes.

4. First Class/Delta One

Service: Full premium experience, lounge access on select routes.

Flexibility: Tickets are fully refundable with no change fees.

Non-Refundablevs Refundable Tickets

Delta operates several fare buckets—each with its own rules on seat selection, baggage, and refunds:

1. Non-Refundable

• Generally cheapest fares.
• No refunds—only credit for future travel, minus a reissue fee.

2. Refundable

• Higher upfront cost.
• Cancel anytime for a full cash refund.

Decision Matrix:

Pro Tip: Use this tool in “Flexible Dates” mode to spot sub-$200 round-trips on U.S. domestic routes.

Internal Link: For more on cancellations, see Delta Non-Refundable vs Refundable Tickets

Finding Delta’s Best Fare Finder Tool

Delta’s “Best Fare Finder” surfaces flexible dates and routes:

1. Navigate to Delta.com → Book → Best Fare Finder.
2. Enter origin, destination, and a month range.
3. Scan the calendar heatmap: green for cheapest days.
4. Select a date pair; click “Show flights.”

Pro Tip: Use this tool in “Flexible Dates” mode to spot sub-$200 round-trips on U.S. domestic routes.

Internal Link: For more information, check out Finding Delta’s Best Fare Finder Tool.

Delta Pay Later & Payment Options

Delta’s deferred payment program lets you lock in a fare for 24–72 hours with a deposit:

• Eligibility: Domestic Main Cabin only.
• Deposit amount: Typically 10–20% of total fare.
• Holding period: Varies by route (displayed at checkout).

How to Use:

• Choose your flight, then click “Pay Later” at booking.
• Receive a reminder email before your hold expires.
• Complete payment online to confirm.

Internal Link: For alternative deal-finding methods, check out Delta Pay Later & Payment Options.

Changing Name on Delta Ticket

Minor name corrections (spelling, order) incur zero fees if done within 24 hours of booking. After that:

1. Log in to “My Trips.”
2. Select your reservation → “Need Help?” → “Correct a name.”
3. Submit supporting ID via upload.

Note: Major changes (adding middle name, entire name change) may require cancellation and rebooking.

Internal Link: To change your ticket name or details after booking, see Changing Name on Delta Ticket

Wrong Passenger Details? What You Can Do

Spotted a typo? Act fast:

1. Within 24 hours: Free correction per DOT rule.
2. After 24 hours: Delta may permit one free minor correction; otherwise, cancel & rebook.
3. Emergency cases: If it’s a medical/legal name change, email Specialist Desk with documentation.

Internal Link: If you accidentally book under the wrong name, see Wrong Passenger Details? What You Can Do.

24-Hour Risk-Free Cancellation

U.S. Department of Transportation mandates a full refund if you cancel within 24 hours of booking on a flight >7 days out:

1. Cancel: via Delta.com or app—no call needed.
2. Check: Your credit card statement: refund posts within 7 business days.
3. Reinstate: A cancelled Basic Economy ticket by calling Delta’s reservations (you can reference your e-ticket number).

Internal Link: To understand your rights for a full refund, see 24-Hour Risk-Free Cancellation.

Understanding Companion Certificates

Typically issued via co-branded credit cards, companion certificates let a second passenger fly for just taxes and fees:

• Booking Window: via Delta.com or app—no call needed.
• Eligible fares: Main Cabin only (no Basic Economy).
• Fees: Pay up to ~$75 in taxes and carrier charges per person.

Maximizing Value:

• Use on long-haul routes with high base fares.
• Stack certificate with Pay Later hold to lock your primary fare in advance

Internal Link: For companion certificates, see Understanding Companion Certificates.