NO ONE IN THE MIDDLE: Delta pledges social distancing

Delta Air Lines has pledged to block the middle seat through September 30, maintaining 60 percent capacity in the main cabin and 50 percent in first class. As demand upticks on certain routes Delta said it will upgrade to larger aircraft when available or add more flights.

“Reducing the overall number of customers on every aircraft across the fleet is one of the most important steps we can take to ensure a safe experience,” said Delta chief customer experience officer Bill Lentsch.

Blocked seats will come up as ‘unavailable’ on the system and the airline will also block a small number of aisle seats on certain aircraft.

In addition, Delta will “sanitize every flight at every Delta airport using electrostatic sprayers.”

“Delta is offering the highest standards in safety and cleanliness so we’re ready for customers when they’re ready to fly again,” Lenstch added.

The airline is adding social distancing markers at check-in areas, Delta Sky Club check-in areas, at the gate and on the jetbridge to encourage passengers to maintain a safe distance from each other.