2026 airline guide
Delta Air Lines: check-in, bags & seats
Check-in & Cutoffs
Online window, airport check-in cutoffs, and bag-drop deadlines
Baggage Fees & Size Limits
Carry-on rules, checked bag fees, oversize and sports equipment
Seats & Upgrades
Economy seat pitch and width, upgrade options, seats to avoid
Routes & hubs
Top routes, hub airports, and where this airline flies
Fees & policies
Seat selection, change, cancel, pet, and phone booking fees.
Miles & loyalty
Earn rates, elite tiers, best redemptions, and partner airlines.
Upgrades
How to get upgraded — elite status, miles, bid upgrades, and gate upgrades.
International
International routes, baggage fees, passport requirements, and check-in rules.
Delta Air Lines quick facts
What to know before you fly
- Delta raised the domestic bag drop cutoff from 30 to 45 minutes starting April 8, 2025, aligning with the checked-baggage deadline.
- Delta Main Basic (Basic Economy) includes a free full-size carry-on bag, unlike American Airlines or United Airlines basic economy fares.
- Delta SkyMiles American Express Card Members receive the first checked bag free on domestic flights; eligible cards also get the second bag free.
Related guides
Know exactly when to leave home
The Leave-By calculator factors in your drive time, parking, check-in, bag drop, and security — so you hit the gate with time to spare.
Calculate my leave-by time →Data verified 2026-06-28. Always confirm times and fees on the Delta Air Lines website before you fly.