Delta Air Lines has been using an advanced seat mapping algorithm since 2019 to maximize efficiency in flight bookings. Airlines use complex algorithms and artificial intelligence for a wide range of applications, from deciding ticket prices to flight planning. However, it is unusual for carriers to use it (or admit to using it) to pre-plan seating arrangements on individual flights. Let’s take a closer look at how Delta has been using algorithms to do just that.

What are Dynamic Seat Maps?

Delta’s ‘Dynamic Seat Maps’ system is essentially a computer algorithm that keeps a few rows on the aircraft blocked for certain types of bookings. The number of rows blocked is decided by the algorithm using complicated computer witchcraft after taking into account historical booking trends and seat assignment data.

One of the most prominent examples of Delta’s algorithm in action can be found while navigating the carrier’s ‘seat selection’ section when booking any flight. The system blocks a few rows, mostly at the aircraft’s aft cabin, for passengers traveling in groups of three or more. These seats are not available for bookings of one or two passengers, unless they are made by the airline’s elite status members.

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Blocked rows are usually represented by crossed-out seats on any flight's seat map. Photo: Delta Air Lines

Admittedly, Delta Air Lines hasn’t been entirely forthcoming when it comes to its ‘Dynamic Seat Maps’ program. There is little verified information available in the public domain, so we reached out to the US carrier for a comment. Delta Air Lines told Simple Flying:

“Being a customer-centric brand means we’re constantly working to offer optimal experiences across travel. Taking a dynamic approach with our seat map displays is one way of doing that by providing preferred seating choices in all cabins – at the time of booking or at the gate when working with an agent – for customers traveling alone or with a group.”

How can you take advantage of this algorithm?

Delta claims the algorithm is designed to help customers get the best seats for their flights, and we are inclined to agree. Let’s continue with the example of blocking out entire rows for passengers traveling in groups of three or more. Here, the keyword is ‘dynamic,’ which essentially means the algorithm will treat each flight or route differently.

In other words, routes that see significant tourist demand will have more rows blocked out, taking into consideration the fact that people mostly holiday in groups. On the other hand, routes will high business travel are likely to have fewer blocked rows. Similarly, flights during popular holiday seasons can be expected to feature more restricted rows.

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Delta operates a fleet of 45 Airbus A220-100s and eleven A220-300s.  Photo: Vincenzo Pace | Simple Flying

Of course, even the most advanced computer algorithms aren’t entirely bulletproof, and slight anomalies are bound to happen from time to time, especially since Delta uses historical booking data as a reference point.

What do you make of Delta Air Lines’ unique approach to seat maps? Do you think the airline is right in blocking out certain rows so families can sit together on flights? Please, let us know your thoughts in the comments.