Delta Returns to Numbered Zones for Boarding to Simplify Process

• Delta Air Lines will update its boarding process starting May 1, switching to numbered zones instead of named categories. Zones 1-8 will correspond to the previous boarding groups.

• The change reverts back to a similar zone-based boarding process Delta used until early 2019, before switching to category-based boarding.

• Delta says the numbered zones will provide more clarity for customers about the boarding process. The zone will be printed on boarding passes.

• No changes will be made to the actual boarding order, just the naming convention of the groups. Colors, screens, etc. indicating zones will remain.

• Boarding processes remain imperfect across US airlines. United recently updated seating assignments to try to save 2 minutes per flight. American Airlines uses a 9-group boarding system.