Delta is introducing 'basic' business class. Here's how it works — and how it could mean you can finally afford a seat.

Delta is rolling out "basic" premium fares to make flying in its higher-end seats cheaper. Taylor Rains/Business Insider Delta has launched a "basic" option for its first class, premium economy, and Delta One fares. The discounted tickets preserve the on-board experience but strip away perks like lounge access. Critics argue the unbundling strategy will make yesterday's premium fares today's unbundled ones. Delta Air Lines' fanciest passenger cabin just got a budget option. Sort of. The airline this week launched new fare types that expand its "basic" strategy into its premium cabins — First Class, Premium Select, and Delta One, the latter marketed as "Basic Business." Delta says the goal is to make premium flying less expensive by offering unbundled tickets that keep the core on-board experience while removing traditional perks — a strategy it hopes will attract new customers and entice more price-conscious flyers to upgrade.