Delta Air Lines has introduced its Premium Select (premium economy) cabin on direct flights between Melbourne and Los Angeles, offering travelers an upgraded experience that balances comfort and value on the long-haul route. The service launched in December 2022 with three weekly flights, a frequency set to increase to five times per week by mid-October and daily departures from December 22 through late March 2027, before reverting to five weekly flights.

The Premium Select cabin on the Airbus A350-900 features five rows arranged in a 2-4-2 configuration, with seats offering a pitch of 97 centimeters, providing up to 18 centimeters more legroom than economy class. While seat width remains unchanged, passengers benefit from additional elbow room due to the reduced number of seats per row. Each seat includes a firm folding table integrated into the armrest, along with a universal power outlet and a USB-C charging port, although some plugs and headphone jacks are positioned awkwardly low or towards the rear of the armrest. Passenger comfort is further enhanced by a retractable footrest, a 17.5-centimeter recline, and an amenities kit featuring an eye mask, earplugs, lip balm, toothpaste and brush, slippers for lavatory visits, and a memory foam pillow.

In-flight entertainment is delivered through a 33.25-centimeter screen with a varied selection of movies and television shows. Wi-Fi access is promoted as “fast” and complimentary for a few hours at the beginning and end of the flight, though connectivity may be inconsistent; in this case, the service failed to connect shortly after departure from Melbourne but was available en route to Los Angeles. The airline plans to expand gate-to-gate Wi-Fi coverage on all Asia-Pacific flights later in 2024.

Meal service in Premium Select allows passengers to pre-order their main course. On the reviewed flight, offerings included seared chicken breast with mustard sauce served over creamy polenta and vegetables, and a ricotta-heavy vegetarian cannelloni described as comforting. Meals are accompanied by a small salad with oil and balsamic dressing options and followed by dessert, though the chocolate cake received a lukewarm response. Complimentary beverages include Spanish wines, Italian sparkling wine, American beer, and signature cranberry drinks. Coffee is available upon request but served in disposable paper cups, contrasting with the otherwise full crockery and glassware setup. Breakfast options shortly before landing include chocolate banana pancakes or spinach quiche with potato and feta, both described as satisfying.

Passenger service received positive remarks for attentiveness and responsiveness, with crew offering drink refills, accommodating meal replacements, and addressing service issues such as carbonated beverages spilling upon opening. Snack offerings such as crisps, muesli bars, and nut mixes are distributed multiple times during the nearly 14-hour flight. While water is not routinely brought through the cabin during service, each Premium Select seat is provided a 600ml bottle upon boarding.

On the ground, Premium Select travelers do not have automatic access to partner lounges unless holding separate privileges such as high-status credit cards, although Delta One (business class) passengers departing Melbourne can use the Marhaba Lounge. Checked baggage allowances include two pieces up to 23 kilograms each, with carry-on limits defined by size—one bag up to 114 centimeters total dimensions plus a personal item.

Delta’s SkyMiles loyalty program, free to join with no expiration on points, integrates with the SkyTeam alliance, linking the airline with partners including Air France-KLM, China Eastern, Korean Air, LATAM, and Virgin Atlantic, but does not have direct Australian partnerships.

Fares for a return Premium Select ticket from Melbourne to Los Angeles were reported at approximately AUD 5,815 when booked three months in advance. Overall, the new Premium Select offering serves as a middle ground between economy and business class, providing enhanced comfort, service, and amenities that justify the premium for travelers seeking an elevated transpacific experience.