Delta’s Execs Explain Its New Interiors in Dollars and Cents

There's been a lot of commentary on Delta's new re-classed cabins. Some point out that what the airline refers to as "redefining the product" consists of little more than changing dress and swapping labels. Like that's a bad thing. Delta went back to basics, opting for an airline's version of the little black dress—which in its case is elegantly quilted in true-blue leather, with a vibrant red-stripe cinched waist, and chic white piping: iconic Americana. Delta's choice to change out covers to refresh the cabin is a proven in-service cabin strategy. While the dress Delta selected is far too aviation 'haute-couture' to have been cheap, it allowed Delta to introduce a new product without a massive outlay in design and completion. By eliminating big-production items, which could delay program implementation, Delta avoids having aircraft out of service longer than