Delta Business Class International: Delta One® Review, History (2025)

How Travel with Delta Has Changed Over the Years

I often think about how air travel has transformed, and Delta Business Class International story is a perfect example. They began with simple “Aircoach” flights back in 1949 and grew into one of the world’s leading airlines, offering tiered cabin options for every type of traveler.

We can see how their service has shifted with time. From “Golden Crown Service” in the 1950s, to “Medallion Service” in 1978, and later “BusinessElite,” Delta has always been upgrading. Today, their crown jewel is Delta One®, known globally as their international business class.

What Makes Delta One® Stand Out

I believe what draws most people to Delta One is the combination of comfort and exclusivity. It’s offered on all long-haul international flights and on a few domestic routes like JFK to Los Angeles or San Francisco.

They treat it as their “international first class,” even though it’s technically business class. This means passengers enjoy the best Delta has to offer: lie-flat beds, fine dining, and personalized service.

The Comfort of Seats and Privacy

We often hear travelers talk about sleep on planes, and Delta One focuses exactly on that. Each seat transforms into a 180-degree lie-flat bed with direct aisle access. Best Business Class Airlines.

On the Airbus A350, the Delta One Suites go a step further with sliding doors and dividers for full privacy. Each A350 carries 32 of these suites in a 1-2-1 setup. But not all planes are equal—some older 767s and ex-LATAM A350s have less desirable 2-2-2 layouts, making them feel cramped compared to competitors.

Bedding and Special Touches

These details matter when you’re flying overnight. Delta offers bedding by Missoni, including a lumbar pillow that doubles as a mattress pad. The blanket feels soft yet sustainable since it’s made from 100% recycled materials.

Every passenger also receives a Missoni-branded amenity kit with Grown Alchemist skincare, socks, an eye mask, earplugs, and more. It’s small things like these that create a sense of care.

Dining That Feels Restaurant-Worthy

I can’t help but mention the food because it truly changes the mood of a flight. The service begins with warm nuts and cocktails, followed by multi-course meals served on real ceramic dishes.

• Starters: appetizer, salad, and soup
• Mains: three chef-curated choices (extra options for pre-order)
• Desserts: custom ice cream sundaes, cakes, fruit, and cheeses

They also serve a hearty pre-arrival breakfast, like frittatas, fruit bowls, and fresh croissants. It’s no wonder many call it one of the best dining experiences among U.S. carriers.

Entertainment and Connectivity Options

We all like to stay entertained, and Delta provides one of the largest onboard media libraries through Delta Studio®. Every seat includes a large screen loaded with movies, TV shows, and podcasts.

Power outlets, USB ports, and noise-canceling headphones keep everything accessible. The only catch is Wi-Fi. On some flights, it’s patchy or expensive, though Delta promises free high-speed Viasat Wi-Fi across all long-haul routes by late 2025.

Personalized Service in the Air

They know how to make travelers feel special. A flight attendant is assigned to each small section of the cabin to provide hot towel service, meal guidance, and check-ins throughout the flight.

On the ground, Delta One passengers enjoy Delta Sky Club access and exclusive lounges at JFK, LAX, and BOS, with Seattle (SEA) joining in 2025. Sky Priority® perks also mean faster check-in, boarding, and baggage claim. Latest Delta Updates.

Other Cabins Beyond the Top Tier

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We sometimes forget that not everyone flies in Delta One. Delta also offers a range of cabins that fit different budgets and travel needs:

• Delta Premium Select – premium economy with bigger seats, footrests, plated meals, and amenity kits.
• Delta First – wider recliner seats for domestic or short international flights.
• Delta Comfort+® – extra legroom, priority boarding, and premium snacks.
• Main Cabin – standard economy with free snacks, entertainment, and upgraded dining on longer flights.
• Basic Economy – the cheapest option, but no seat choice, refunds, or upgrades.

Comparing with Other Airlines

We can’t ignore the competition. United’s Polaris business class is consistent in design but weaker in catering. American’s Flagship Business feels middle-of-the-pack.

Travelers often say Delta One Suites on the A350 are “as good as it gets” for U.S. carriers—mainly because of privacy doors, great entertainment, and polished service.

When Delta One Is Worth It

We need to think about when paying extra makes sense. This cabin is recommended for travelers with health needs (back pain, circulation issues), long-haul flights over 8 hours, or special occasions like honeymoons.

Business travelers who want to sleep and land refreshed often see it as a productivity investment. And sometimes, great deals pop up—like a €1,300 Delta One ticket from Dublin to Miami.

Historical Highlights That Shaped Today’s Service

These moments show how Delta’s cabins evolved:

• 1949: “Aircoach” night flights launched.
• 1978: Medallion Service introduced as Delta’s first business class.
• 1999: BusinessElite became the premium option.
• 2008: Flat-bed seats appeared on Boeing 777s.
• 2011: Economy Comfort (later Comfort+) launched.
• 2017: Delta One Suites debuted on Airbus A350s, the world’s first all-suite business class.

Final Thoughts

I think flying with Delta is more than getting from one place to another. It’s about choosing the right cabin for your journey, whether that means premium luxury in Delta One or the budget-friendly option of Basic Economy.

For those who want a memorable, comfortable, and seamless experience, Delta business class international delivers with privacy, fine dining, and priority services that few U.S. airlines can match. If you value rest, service, and special treatment on your next long flight, it’s a choice worth considering.

FAQs

References

1. Delta Air Lines – Official Website: https://www.delta.com
2. Delta One® Overview – Delta: https://www.delta.com/us/en/onboard/delta-one
3. Delta Premium Select – Delta: https://www.delta.com/us/en/onboard/premium-select
4. Delta Comfort+® – Delta: https://www.delta.com/us/en/onboard/delta-comfort-plus
5. Delta Main Cabin – Delta: https://www.delta.com/us/en/onboard/main-cabin
6. Delta Basic Economy – Delta: https://www.delta.com/us/en/onboard/basic-economy
7. The Points Guy – Delta One Suites Review: https://thepointsguy.com
8. Skytrax Airline Reviews – Delta Air Lines: https://www.airlinequality.com/airline-reviews/delta-air-lines
9. One Mile at a Time – Delta Business Class Reviews: https://onemileatatime.com
10. Simple Flying – Delta Cabin Classes History: https://simpleflying.com

Disclaimer: Information is for general guidance only. Flight services, seats, and amenities may vary. Check Delta’s official site for latest details.

Author:

Eric Davis is a seasoned travel writer and aviation expert with years of experience reviewing premium cabins worldwide. He shares insights to help travelers choose comfort, value, and the best flying experience.