I’ve posted my thoughts on Delta’s changes to its complimentary alcohol offerings at the Sky Club. My amazement with the ongoing FlyerTalk thread on this topic continues. Now approaching 108,000 views, and surpassing 2,000 comments, the thread has provided some great entertainment for me. The quips about Sky Klub trailer parks and Lance crackers have made me laugh myself to tears. A quick review of why I pay for lounge access is in order.

  • Getting away from the gate
  • Personalized attention from experienced agents when needed
  • A place to get work done (include power outlets and wi-fi here too)
  • Comfortable chairs
  • Clean restrooms

Of course, I got my start in airline lounges with the American Admirals Club back when you had to pay for all alcohol. Perhaps I’m jaded, but the alcohol change really does not bother me. The majority of the comments in the FlyerTalk thread seem to be coming from a core group of FT members, but the silent 108,000 viewers? Are they just laughing like me, or are they really upset about this? The sample size of two that I’ve personally spoken to about this really are upset about it. But why?

For all our complaints about SkyMiles availability, broken award calendars, lack of one-way awards, etc., we continue to fly Delta. Why? Because the Delta experience is generally better than other airlines. The people, the service, the reliability….generally is just better than everyone else. So much better that it helps make up for the extra work you have to do to make SkyMiles work for you. The new complimentary liquor options do not match that better experience so many of us have come to expect from Delta Air Lines. Will they change? I doubt it, but 108,000 views must say something.

-MJ, August 8, 2013