MANY travelers are unaware of a unique perk offered by Delta Air Lines that’s been going on for years.
The company doesn’t often outwardly promote the benefit as it’s more of a secret for true fans and frequent flyers.
So long as you know who to ask, it’s possible to get Delta trading cards on your next flight.
Some travelers like TikToker Sarowar (@sarowarrr) have even gone viral in recent years for getting the cards, per a post on TikTok.
He could be seen simply walking up and asking the pilot of his flight if he could get a trading card in the clip.
While the Delta pilot explained that he didn’t have any on his person at the moment, his first officer would have some.
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Sure enough, the first officer handed the man a reflective Delta Boeing 737 collectible trading card.
Sarowar’s video went viral, earning over three million likes.
PILOT’S RESPONSIBILITY
Earlier this month, another Delta customer gave it a try, per a post from video creator Cruisers X GHB (@ghb_tyty) on Instagram.
“What’s the possibility of your pilot having trading cards?” he asked two flight attendants while boarding the plane.
One flight attendant called the trading cards the “next big thing” noting that several passengers had wanted some earlier in the day.
The creator was able to get two cards for himself and his partner.
Based on what passengers have done, it’s important to note that the pilot is likely the one with the trading cards.
If not, the first officer or other members of Delta staff may have some hidden onboard.
So, what made Delta get into the trading card space?
STAFF IDEA
The program was started by employees about 20 years ago as a way to share their love for the airline and air travel, per what a spokesperson told People.
Delta Air Lines Trading Cards
Delta Air Lines offers trading cards to customers who know about it.
A total of 11 cards are in the most recent collection and there have been six in the history of the trading card offerings.
The cards feature different types of Delta planes in its fleet.
The trading card program was started by employees about 20 years ago as a way to spread a love for Delta and flying.
Those who seek out the pilot on their next Delta flight and ask about the trading cards kindly could get one and start their collection, according to a Delta spokesperson.
“When they’re not busy preparing for the flight or flying our customers to their next adventure, our pilots carrying these fan-favorite cards are more than happy to hand one out to any customer who asks nicely; as they look to add to, or begin, their newest favorite collection.”
Credit: People
Each card is specific to “a different aircraft in [Delta’s] fleet corresponding to the type of aircraft each pilot flies.”
A total of six separate collections have been created, with redesigns every couple of years.
At least 11 card types are in the current collection, created by Delta’s “Window Seat” visual design team.
The Delta spokesperson also confirmed that customers should look for the pilot to get their hands on the cards.
“When they’re not busy preparing for the flight or flying our customers to their next adventure, our pilots carrying these fan-favorite cards are more than happy to hand one out to any customer who asks nicely; as they look to add to, or begin, their newest favorite collection,” they said.
Delta also recently launched a brand new deal in partnership with Uber that allows travelers to “turn rides into miles.”
Customers were also left in fear last year after Delta came under fire amid skyrocketing prices.