Late reply, but I also am a Delta flier.<p>What you describe only works during regular operations, and it&#x27;s spotty at best.  50% of the time the Android app fails at loading the seat map, for example.  While Delta is considered the best IT in the business, it&#x27;s still pretty atrocious - I use it multiple times per week.<p>You will never beat a Plat&#x2F;Diamond for a confirmed seat during irrops.  The problem isn&#x27;t &quot;can I rebook myself onto a plane with tons of open seats available&quot; it&#x27;s &quot;can I bump the regular fliers from standby and get a seat on that entirely full aircraft&quot;.<p>Even when the app functions - it&#x27;s still slower than calling the elite desk many times.<p>What you&#x27;re describing is just normal access everyone gets.  The elite fliers get even more options in the app (block the seats next to you, switch to economy comfort for free, etc.), but I guarantee you it&#x27;s worthless when it all goes to shit :)