Delta airlines gay

Over the past decade, flying Delta has become something of a status symbol.

In the ’90s and early aughts, Delta didn’t market heavily to LGBTQ+ travelers.

In each episode, Yang and Rogers declare, in perfect unison, certain statements to be "Rules of Culture." One of those rules, specifically rule number 43, asserts that “Delta is the queen of airlines.” 

A crack in the gay facade?

For what it’s worth, though, Delta’s actual product these days may not be quite matching its luxury image.

The airline has partnered with its health plan administrator, United Healthcare, to generate resources for LGBTQ+ employees and families that address the unique health disparities while expanding access to mental health resources for all employees.

Baxter and Scheb belong to a group known as the “Delta gays,” as I call them.

To market those efforts, Delta brought on an ad agency powerhouse, Wieden + Kennedy, famous for its work with big culture labels like Nike and Coca-Cola.

Delta has a strong network of business resource groups, including EQUAL. A friend and frequent flier once told me that “Delta is like Equinox,” explaining that like the high-end gym, the airline offers nearly the same products and services as others in a slightly more polished package, which gives the illusion of luxury and affluence.

But one look at the "Love is in the air" blog that gave updates on the promotion (warning: you WILL cry) shows a group of people who displayed an overwhelming amount of respect, love, admiration and joy for what it's really all about: love.

In other words, it may not matter if Delta’s experience isn’t quite as good as the marketing indicates.

However, a major shift transpired in the late 2000s.

As Delta began the process of merging with Northwest Airlines, executives in Atlanta wanted to become a much larger carrier and a better carrier. While we can never top the always-hilarious Pam Ann's A-to-Z Airline Guide, here's a look at the gay-friendliest airlines in the skies.

Scandinavian Airlines (SAS)

Our first shout-out has to go to Scandinavian Airlines (SAS).

And fabulous outfits.

This campaign was not soon forgotten, either: In 2012, SAS was named Favorite Airline at the EDGE Awards. You can follow him @thechrisflyer.