Delta adds ticket sales to Facebook page

We knew it was bound to happen; Delta simply got around to it first. Meeting planners who spend a lot time networking with friends and colleagues on Facebook can do one more thing while they’re on the social networking site: book a flight.

Delta Air Lines introduced its Delta Ticket Window on its Facebook page, where users can book one-way or round-trip flights to any of Delta’s destinations. News that you just booked a flight then goes out to your family and friends on the site. “Our customers are spending more time online and are looking for new ways to connect with us. We’re now delivering technology where our customers are – from our own website to our Facebook page to Internet news sites and beyond,” says Bob Kupbens, Delta’s vice president. Delta tracked the surfing habits of its in-flight Internet users and found that Facebook was the most popular website among its travelers. Naturally, Kupbens said, adding a flight-booking option in Facebook quickly rose to the top of the to-do list.

This latest update is another of Delta’s attempt to reach out more to the tech-savvy traveler. The company already allows passengers to check in on its mobile site and use e-boarding passes on their phones. The company plans to introduce a smartphone app that has those same functions and more. “Unlocking the full power of social media and mobile apps is the next step for Delta, while providing innovative travel tools and greater convenience in our customer’s mobile world,” Kupbens says.