Bad news for Delta Air Lines customers starting May 19: What travelers need to know and the routes affected
Delta Air Lines is shaking up its in-flight service “to create a more consistent experience” for customers across its network.
Airlines have been trying to trim costs to help their bottom lines, but Delta says it has another motive behind its latest move. Starting Tuesday, May 19, 2026, the Atlanta-based carrier will stop serving food and beverages to economy-class passengers on flights under 350 miles.
This will make Delta the legacy airline with the most restrictive in-flight service policy. American Airlines and Southwest offer drinks and snacks on flights over 250 miles, while United Airlines does for those of at least 300 miles.
A company spokesperson told Simple Flying that the airline is making the adjustment “to create a more consistent experience across our network.” However, economy-class passengers on flights that are 350 miles or more will see an upgrade, from express service to full service. The only exception is Delta First customers who always receive full service.
What travelers need to know and the routes affected
Roughly 450 daily flights will see express service removed due to the new Delta Air Line policy. Because of the short distance these flights cover, flight attendants often have difficulty reaching the back of plane before in-flight service has to be stopped for safety reasons leading to passenger discontent.
On the other hand, the adjustment will result in economy passengers on about 600 daily flights, those 350 miles or more, getting improved in-flight service. Instead of express service, they will now get full service like those on flights of at least 500 miles.
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