I am a frequent flyer; however, only last week did I get the opportunity to fly on Delta Airlines for the first time. What attracted me to Delta was the fare. Normally not a budget airline, Delta had the lowest fare I could find for a trip from my home in the Northeast to Las Vegas. Taxes and fees included, the cost to me was $180 round trip. This was much cheaper than fare quotes from Southwest, Jet Blue, and even Airtranthe traditional budget carriers.

I used DeltaVacations.com to book my entire airfare and hotel package. The website was simple and straightforward to use, and as a thank you, I was given a voucher for $10 off at Planet Hollywood store and restaurant in Las Vegas.

Seats were assigned automatically to me, but Delta's website easily allows you to make changes if you're not happy with the seats automatically assigned to you. In my case I upgraded to exit row, as I'm a tall guy and like the extra legroom.

Check-in was a snap the morning of my trip, and Delta employees were very friendly. The flight crews were incredibly professional and pleasant. Their uniforms also impressed me. Both male and female flight attendants wore clean, crisp business suits that gave the entire airline a classy look and feel. Aircraft were upholstered in leather, and the carpeting was newer. Even the restroom on the one Boeing 757 had hardwood flooring. For the longer flights (in my case to and from Vegas), entertainment options abounded. While not available on every aircraft yet (Delta says constantly they're adding it to more aircraft), the personal entertainment system on the Boeing 757 I flew on was unique and exciting. There was a screen at each seat, and in-flight entertainment options included HBO, Dish Network, movies, MP3s, radio stations, video games, and a flight progress log. Some of the features, such as the movies and video games were pay-per-use ($5), but there was plenty of free entertainment as well. For example, there was a free trivia game that allowed you to play against other passengers on the plane. You could also view up-to-the-minute flight stats including the plane's position and time to destination.

In addition to great in-flight entertainment, the seat comfort on Delta was impressive too. I was not left feeling whipped after a long flight on their aircraft. Plenty of blankets were provided, and the headrests proved suitable for napping. Delta also provided decent snack service offering a choice of snacks, and, on the longer flights, a snack box. While not really a good meal substitute, the box was filled with gourmet goodies including cheese, crackers, raisins, and a cookie. First class, of course, received full meal service. On the longer flights, two beverage services plus coffee were also conducted. On shorter flights, one beverage service plus snacks was served.

In a day when airlines are slashing in-flight services, sacrificing seat comfort, and yet finally starting to make a profit again, flying Delta was a real pleasure. I felt Delta offered a degree of service, comfort, and professionalism that is lacking among other airlines. As the company emerges from bankruptcy, it appears that Delta is very concerned with building a solid new image. While only my first experience with Delta, I do believe I would fly this airline again if given the opportunity. It has been said that Delta is the Cadillac of airlinesto that, I'd have to agree.

Learn more about this author, James Richardson.
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