JetBlue and Southwest airlines have announced they are ending their middle seat blocking, leaving Delta as the only airline who continues to set aside middle seats.
Delta has set aside middle seats on all their flights at least through January 6, 2021, but JetBlue and Southwest are ending their middle seat blocking.
Here are the latest policy updates.
Delta Airlines
Although most other major airlines said they are selling to capacity, Delta is blocking the middle seats on all flights through January 6, 2021.
“Through at least Jan. 6, 2021, we will ensure more space for customers on all aircraft by blocking the selection of middle seats and limiting the number of customers per flight to reduce the total number of customers on board,” Delta said.
“Medical experts, including our own partners at Emory Healthcare, agree – more distance on board makes a difference,” said Bill Lentsch, Chief Customer Experience Officer.
“We believe that taking care of our customers and employees and restoring confidence in the safety of air travel is more important right now than filling up every seat on a plane. We’ll continue taking a thoughtful, layered approach ensuring customers know to expect the highest standard of care as they prepare for their holiday travels.”
For customers in parties of 3 or more middle seats will appear as available for booking, to allow families and travel companions to select seats together.
For more details visit: Delta Airlines Safety Measures
Jet Blue
Jet Blue said they are limiting capacity, but no longer guarantee an empty middle seat.
“We will sell less than 70% of seats on any JetBlue flight. Some rows on our larger planes will have all 3 seats available for those traveling together, and some rows on our smaller planes will have both window and aisle seats available,” Jet Blue said.
“For the duration of the holiday season, we’ll continue to limit capacity and block seats. We’ll continuously monitor seat assignments behind the scenes to help seat parties together and provide space between those not traveling together where possible. Seat assignments may be modified to achieve an optimal onboard seating experience for everyone.”
For more details visit: Jet Blue Safety Measures
Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines announced that their middle seat blocking will end on November 30, and the airline will start selling to capacity for all flights starting on December 1, 2020.
“We are keeping our middle seats open through November 30,” said Southwest SVP Ryan Green.
“We hope this provides peace of mind as you plan your travel this autumn and through Thanksgiving. Of course, if you are traveling with your family or others, you can still sit together. Otherwise, middle seats will be open.”
For more details visit: Southwest Airlines Safety Measures
Safety Measures at Other Airlines
Although other major airlines have not set aside their middle seats to reduce crowding, all have taken measures to improve safety and sanitation. Read more at:
