Delta Airlines Buddy Pass: What It Is and How It Works?

Delta Air Lines is one of the world’s leading airlines, known for its extensive domestic and international network, customer service, and innovative travel solutions. As part of its employee benefits program, Delta offers a unique travel perk called the Buddy Pass. This pass allows Delta employees and retirees to share discounted standby flight privileges with their friends and family, enabling them to travel at a significantly reduced cost. While the Delta Airlines Buddy Pass provides an affordable way to fly, it comes with specific terms and conditions that travelers should understand to make the most of this benefit. However, it’s important to note that there will be no new Buddy Passes will be issued after January 1, 2026. In this blog, you will explore how the Buddy Pass works, its benefits, and important considerations for travelers.

What Is the Delta Buddy Pass?

• A Delta Buddy Pass is a travel benefit that allows Delta Air Lines employees and retirees to share discounted standby flight access with friends and family. 
• This pass enables designated companions to fly on Delta flights by paying only applicable taxes and fees, significantly reducing the cost of travel. 
• However, travel on a Buddy Pass is on a standby basis, meaning passengers can only board if there are available seats after all revenue-paying customers and higher-priority travelers have been accommodated.
• It’s important to note that Buddy Passes are not complimentary tickets; they are heavily discounted fares that require payment of taxes and fees. 
• Additionally, Buddy Pass holders are subject to certain restrictions and guidelines, including a professional dress code and conduct expectations, as they represent the airline. 
• These passes provide an affordable option for employees to extend their travel privileges, but they come with important considerations regarding seat availability and boarding priority.
• For more detailed information, you can visit www.delta.com or refer to their employee travel portal.

How to Get and Use a Delta Buddy Pass?

To access the benefits of a Delta Airlines Buddy Pass, you must be authorized by a Delta employee or retiree. These passes are not available for purchase; they are a privilege extended to eligible companions of Delta staff. Below is the Step-by-Step Process: 

• Connect with a Delta Employee or Retiree: Establish a relationship with a current Delta employee or retiree who is willing to share their Buddy Pass benefits with you.
• Employee Authorization: The Delta employee or retiree must log into Delta’s internal system, TravelNet, to authorize their use of the Buddy Pass. They will need your full name, address, and phone number to complete this process.
• Booking Your Flight: Once authorized, you can list flights via the Fly Delta app or Delta’s website at www.delta.com. Buddy Passes are standby tickets, meaning your travel is not guaranteed and is subject to seat availability. You will only be responsible for paying the taxes and fees associated with the flight.
• Travel Preparation: Arrive at the airport early, especially for international flights, as standby travel requires extra time for potential gate changes or other issues. Be prepared for the possibility of not getting on your first-choice flight and have backup plans.

Delta Buddy Pass Rules and Restrictions

To travel using a Delta Airlines Buddy Pass, it’s essential to understand the associated policies and restrictions:

• One-Way Travel Requirement: Each Buddy Pass is valid for a single direction of travel. For instance, if your journey involves multiple legs, such as New York to Chicago and then Chicago to Los Angeles, you will need separate Buddy Passes for each segment.
• Standby Status: Buddy Pass holders are placed at the lowest priority on the standby list. This means that after all ticketed passengers have boarded, you may be assigned a seat if available. 
• Seat Assignments: Advance seat selection is not permitted for Buddy Pass travelers. Additionally, if you are traveling with children, there’s no guarantee that you will be seated together.
• Mileage Accrual: Flights booked with a Buddy Pass do not earn Delta SkyMiles, and no one can redeem miles for these tickets.
• Check-In Procedures: Buddy Pass holders are not allowed to check in online. You must check in at the airport, either at a kiosk or with a Delta agent.
• Ticket Changes and Cancellations: Buddy Pass tickets are non-refundable and cannot be modified. Once booked, the travel details are fixed.
• Behavioral Expectations: Maintaining professionalism and courtesy is crucial. Any inappropriate behavior can lead to the revocation of travel privileges, not only for you but also for the Delta employee who issued the Buddy Pass.

By adhering to these guidelines, you can make the most of the Delta Buddy Pass benefit while ensuring a smooth travel experience.

Tips to Make the Most of Your Delta Buddy Pass

To fully benefit from a Delta Buddy Pass, consider the following strategies:

• Plan Ahead: Book your flights well in advance to secure the best fares and availability.
• Be Flexible: Adjust your travel dates and destinations to take advantage of lower fares and increased seat availability.
• Utilize Companion Certificates: If eligible, use Delta’s Companion Certificates to save on additional tickets.
• Monitor Promotions: Keep an eye out for Delta’s fare specials and promotional offers to maximize your savings.
• Explore Extensive Destinations: Delta’s extensive network allows you to visit a wide range of domestic and international locations.

By implementing these tips, you can enhance your travel experience and make the most of your Delta Buddy Pass.

Delta Buddy Pass Program to Be Discontinued in 2026

Delta Air Lines is phasing out its Buddy Pass program, which has allowed employees and retirees to offer standby flight access at reduced rates to their close contacts and companions. Starting January 1, 2026, delta will discontinue issuing new Buddy Passes. This move comes after low usage rates, as only 38% of active employees have issued at least one Buddy Pass in the past two years.

Key Changes:

• 2025 Allotment: Employees will receive four Buddy Passes, reduced from eight.
• Program Elimination: No new Buddy Passes will be issued after January 1, 2026.
• Existing Passes: Buddy Passes issued before January 1, 2026, can still be used until they expire.

Commonly Asked Questions