Delta’s Latest App Update Is Packed With Power Tools Frequent Flyers Will Love
Latest version of the Fly Delta app offers self-service rebooking, international travel prompts, and real-time lock screen updates
Photo: Courtesy of Delta Air Lines
The latest version of Delta’s app, Fly Delta 7.0, now integrates the iOS Live Activities feature, allowing users to receive important flight updates directly on their lock screens.
This update is available for download now on both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. It also simplifies the process for SkyMiles elite members to claim upgrades and provides all passengers with better tools to manage their trips during disruptions.
Live Activities Integration
Support for Live Activities has been on Delta and Apple customers’ wish lists for some time. Rolled out with iOS 16 in September 2022, Live Activities provides real-time, continuously updating information on the lock screen and, on the iPhone 14 and later, the dynamic island, a cutout at the top of the screen. Instead of relying on notifications and toggling between apps, users can see updates about everything from their flight to their food delivery at a glance.
Photo: Courtesy of Delta
United updated its app to support Live Activities updates in 2023, followed by American late last year. Now Delta is joining them.
Starting three hours before their flight, travelers with iOS devices and the latest version of Fly Delta will be served a timeline of travel updates through Live Activities, from boarding until arrival. They’ll also be kept abreast of gate changes, delays, and other disruptions.
Live Activities is an Apple feature, but Android users won’t be entirely left out. Delta says customer notifications will be improved throughout the summer. New features will also give travelers more control over their trip when a disruption happens.
Rebooking Capabilities
Starting in June, Delta travelers on non-stop domestic flights or the last leg of the journey will, in the event of travel disruption, be able to use the app to book themselves as standby passengers on an earlier flight departing within 24 hours of their original confirmed flight.
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That means more standing in line at an airport desk or calling a customer service line to get ahead of a disruption. You can arrange it all yourself from your device.
“We’re continuously improving the Fly Delta app to make it the ultimate travel companion, enhancing every step of the customer journey to ensure seamless and connected travel with Delta,” said Eric Phillips, Delta’s SVP and chief digital officer.
Upgrade Certificate Management
One Choice Benefit available to travelers with Delta’s Platinum and Diamond Medallions is global or regional upgrade certificates, allowing them to upgrade to a higher class of travel on an international or domestic/regional flight.
Delta is now making it easier for its elites to claim these benefits. The latest app update shows travelers with eligible upgrade certificates when an upgrade is available and allows them to redeem them while booking through the app, just as they currently can when booking through Delta’s website.
Photo: Courtesy of Delta
Delta says that 97 percent of its SkyMiles Medallion members use its app to manage their day-of-travel experience, while 85 percent of SkyMiles members do the same. Delta wants to make app use universal among its elites; however, starting June 1, the only place Medallion members can select their Choice Benefits is through the app.
Delta also teased out other features that were coming to the app. For example, international travelers will soon be notified if they’re missing documentation or have outstanding tasks to complete before their journey overseas.
