Flying first class is always a treat, but Delta’s Airbus A321neo promises a modern twist on domestic luxury. On a recent redeye flight from Los Angeles (LAX) to Fort Lauderdale (FLL), I had the chance to experience Delta’s newest first-class product. Here’s a detailed look at what it was like, from boarding to touchdown.
Booking and Check-In
Booking my ticket was seamless through Delta’s app, which offered clear fare options. I snagged a first-class seat for $274, a reasonable deal for a 4-hour-10-minute transcontinental flight. As a SkyMiles member, I used the Sky Priority check-in at LAX’s Terminal 3, which was efficient despite a busy morning. The Delta app also kept me updated with baggage notifications, confirming my luggage was loaded—a nice touch for peace of mind.
Boarding and First Impressions
Boarding at LAX was smooth, with Sky Priority passengers called first. The A321neo, a sleek, modern aircraft, felt fresh with its geometric ceiling design and mood lighting set to a calming pinkish-red. Stepping into the first-class cabin, I noticed the 20 seats arranged in a 2-2 configuration, each with a 37-inch pitch and 21-inch width—standard but spacious for domestic first class.
My seat, 3A, was a window seat, and I was greeted with a small water bottle, a pillow, and a blanket. A handwritten welcome note from the crew added a personal touch, a gesture I hadn’t expected. The cabin felt airy, with large overhead bins that easily accommodated my carry-on, a perk of the A321neo’s design.
The Seat: Stylish but Firm
Delta’s A321neo first-class seats are a step up in design, with privacy wings around the headrest and a divider between seats for a cocoon-like feel. The seats are stylish, with a 13-inch HD touchscreen for Delta Studio’s entertainment, complete with Bluetooth headphone connectivity—a feature I loved for pairing my earbuds.
However, comfort was a mixed bag. The seat offered good lumbar support and ample recline, but the cushioning was firm, almost hard. After about two hours, I felt some discomfort, especially in my thighs, which aligns with reviews noting the seats’ lack of padding. Legroom was decent but slightly restricted by the entertainment box under the seat ahead, a minor annoyance for taller passengers. The center console had a storage bin, though it was too small for my iPad, and a tray table that could hold drinks, keeping the main tray clear for work.
In-Flight Experience
The flight attendants were attentive, offering pre-departure beverages—a rarity for domestic first class. I opted for coffee, which was promptly delivered. The service remained friendly throughout, though a medical emergency on this flight (as noted in reviews) kept the crew busy for nearly half the journey, with talks of a potential diversion to El Paso.
The in-flight entertainment was a highlight. The large screen and Delta Studio’s extensive movie selection kept me occupied. Wi-Fi, powered by Viasat, was fast and reliable, a step above typical domestic offerings. However, no meal was served on this redeye, which was disappointing for a five-hour flight. A snack basket made the rounds, offering Biscoff cookies and other small bites, but I expected more from first class.
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Amenities and Privacy
The privacy wings and seat dividers were a standout, creating a sense of personal space rare in domestic first class. However, they made it tricky to chat with my seatmate without leaning forward, a downside for those traveling with a companion. Accessing the window seat was also cumbersome if the aisle seat was reclined, as the divider and tray table created a tight squeeze.
Each seat had a 110V power outlet and two USB ports, conveniently placed to avoid cord tangling. The overhead bins, larger than those on older A321s, made stowing bags a breeze. The cabin’s four lavatories, including one dedicated to first class, were clean, though I heard the restroom door slamming from the back row, a potential nuisance for some seats.
The Verdict
Delta’s A321neo first class is a stylish, tech-forward product with thoughtful touches like privacy wings and modern entertainment. The service was warm, and the cabin’s design felt premium. However, the firm seats and lack of a full meal on a long redeye were letdowns. For $274, it was a worthwhile upgrade over economy for the extra space and priority perks, but the seat comfort issue makes me hesitant for longer routes.
Would I fly it again? Yes, for shorter flights or if I’m prioritizing privacy and tech. For a redeye, though, I might consider JetBlue’s Mint Suites for a more comfortable sleep. If you’re flying this route, bring a seat cushion for extra comfort and temper expectations for catering. Delta’s A321neo is a step forward, but it’s not quite a home run.
