Delta hints at new basic business fare and increased premium seating

Big changes could be coming to Delta Air Lines as executives hint at the introduction of a basic business-class fare and more premium seats on its aircraft. Historically, Delta's higher-end passengers enjoyed services like checked bags and seat selection for free, unlike those flying in basic economy.

Delta recently announced plans to expand its range of fare options starting in October. Currently, only the coach cabin offers a "basic" option with restrictions such as no seat selection or SkyMiles earnings. However, Delta President Glen Hauenstein has suggested that this segmentation approach could extend to pricier cabins.

Hauenstein stated during the company's second-quarter earnings call that the main cabin's segmentation serves as a template for all premium cabins over time. "It's all about giving people more choice, more pricing options, and more products and services in every cabin," he said.