Delta MSP to Cancun First Class Review: My Flight Experience
Flying Delta from Minneapolis to Cancun gave me a chance to try its first-class cabin on an international route. My flight was on a Boeing 737-900ER, and I booked seat 3C. I appreciated the extra space, although the seat itself was less comfortable than I had expected.
I took this flight in December 2020. The fare and onboard service described here reflect that trip; aircraft, seating, menus, and Wi-Fi options may differ when you travel.
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Why I Booked Delta First Class to Cancun
I had Delta flight credits available, which was one reason I chose the airline for my flight from Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) to Cancun International Airport (CUN).
For my departure, a one-way first-class ticket cost $394, compared with $218 for economy. I decided to pay the additional $176 for more space and the opportunity to review Delta’s first-class cabin on this route.
I was also curious whether a flight to Mexico would feel different from flying domestic first class.
On the morning of my departure, the Minneapolis area was under a winter storm warning, with 6–12 inches of snow expected. Thankfully, my flight got into the air a few hours before the storm began.
Checking In at MSP
I woke up at 5:45 a.m. and arrived at the airport around 6:30 a.m. After parking in the airport garage, I walked across the sky bridge to the check-in area. The economy check-in line was much longer than I had expected. My first-class ticket gave me access to the Delta Sky Priority check-in counter, but even that line took about 30 minutes.
The agent checked my passport and tagged my bag. With TSA PreCheck, I made it through security in about ten minutes and reached the gate roughly 45 minutes before boarding.
Boarding My Delta Flight to Cancun
There was plenty of room in the gate area, and the flight appeared to be lightly loaded. I boarded partway through the boarding process and found seat 3C in the first-class cabin.
My aircraft was a Delta Boeing 737-900ER with seatback entertainment screens and onboard Wi-Fi. The cabin reminded me of first class on Delta’s older 757-300s.
My Delta 737-900ER First Class Seat
Seat 3C was an aisle seat. There was plenty of legroom and space, but the seat itself was not as comfortable as other first-class seats I have tried.
The neighboring window seat was empty on my flight, and I spent much of the journey there so I could lean against the window. Having the extra room made it easier to spread out and work on my website, although an empty neighboring seat is not something I would count on when booking.
One of my favorite parts of the flight was the approach to Cancun. From the window, I photographed the Caribbean coastline, inland lagoons, and tropical forests. Those views were quite a change from the winter weather I had left behind in Minnesota.
Food and Service on My Flight
The flight attendants were extremely friendly. They came through the cabin regularly to collect garbage and check whether I needed anything.
On this particular flight, the food consisted of packaged snacks and a snack box. I chose the orange snack box, which included crackers, salami, cheddar cheese spread, and several sweet snacks.
That was the service on my trip, rather than a guide to the menu on flights today. Check Delta’s current onboard dining information for what may be offered on your flight.
Using Wi-Fi Between Minneapolis and Cancun
I used the onboard Wi-Fi to work on my website and check email before taking a nap. Having internet access was useful for getting some work done during the flight.
The paid Wi-Fi plans from my trip are no longer a useful price guide. Delta offers free Delta Sync Wi-Fi for SkyMiles members on equipped flights. Check your flight details and Delta’s Wi-Fi information for availability.
Arriving at Cancun International Airport
Immigration was the least enjoyable part of my arrival. The area leading into passport control was crowded, and it was initially difficult to tell where the queue began.
After about 20 minutes in the crowded arrivals area, I reached the organized line. From there, it took approximately another 45 minutes to reach an immigration officer.
While I was waiting, a fight broke out farther back in the line. It was an unexpected welcome to Mexico, and I was happy when it was finally my turn to have my passport checked.
The officer asked whether I was traveling for work or vacation. Once I cleared immigration, my bag was already waiting at baggage claim, and I continued through customs.
Those were the waits and events on my visit; another arrival could be very different.
My Prebooked Cancun Airport Transfer
I arranged a private Cancun airport transfer before my trip. After collecting my luggage, I walked toward ground transportation and outside the terminal.
There were plenty of people offering taxis and other transportation services. I found a representative holding my transportation company’s sign, and he took me to my driver.
I was glad to have the ride arranged in advance because the area outside arrivals felt chaotic. If you prebook a transfer, read the company’s meeting instructions before you land so you know where to go.
If you’re staying in Cancun’s Hotel Zone, check that your transfer covers your specific hotel.
You can compare Cancun airport transfer options below. These are affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you if you book through them.
Was Delta First Class to Cancun Worth It?
For my flight, I appreciated the extra room, Sky Priority check-in, and friendly flight attendants. The seat comfort was less impressive, and the empty neighboring seat made my experience more spacious than a typical booking would guarantee.
The fare difference on my trip was $176 one way. If I were booking again, I would compare the current price difference and aircraft before deciding whether first class was worth the extra money.