Imagine sitting back in the comfortable lounge of a Delta Sky Club, sipping on a drink and relaxing before your flight, when suddenly, you spot something truly unexpected.
That’s exactly what happened to one traveler when they witnessed a fellow guest loading up a plastic shopping bag with plates of ribs, garlic chicken, and cookies. Yes, you read that right—plates of ribs.
A “Wolf-Like” Behavior Stirs Controversy
A fellow flyer quickly snapped a photo of the scene, sharing it online with a caption that had everyone talking.
The post humorously commented on how the individual “must have been raised by wolves” for packing up so much food to take out of the lounge.
The traveler had apparently loaded up at least three full plates of food—plus a few bananas—before heading out the door.
The original poster even joked, “This is no doubt the same guy who picks all the shrimp out of the alfredo,” giving us a glimpse of what kind of behavior might have sparked this unusual moment.
A Wider Trend of “Maximizing” the Sky Club Experience
The Delta Sky Club has a strict no-takeout policy, but some travelers have been taking full advantage of their lounge experience by trying to sneak extra snacks.
A number of commenters chimed in, admitting that they’ve either witnessed or—gasp—participated in similar “acts of savagery.”
One Redditor shared their own experience of watching people convert the Sky Club’s private booths into makeshift food-packing stations.
“Fill up a plate, disappear into a booth, and transfer the food into a travel container,” they said, referring to the lengths some people will go to maximize the Sky Club’s offerings.
Another user weighed in, saying they personally grab a muffin and some water for the road, but taking half the buffet was definitely “not cool.”
It seems that, while the temptation to fill up on free food is real, not everyone agrees on what’s acceptable behavior when you’re in a lounge.
Delta’s Strict Lounge Policies
While some may try to bend the rules, Delta’s policies are clear.
Guests aren’t allowed to remove food and drink from the lounge, a rule that helps ensure the comfort of all members.
Travelers under 21 are also prohibited from being served alcohol in any Delta Sky Club, with local age restrictions applying for international lounges.
And, just in case anyone thought they could get away with it, breaking these rules could result in mileage deductions or even termination of your membership without compensation.
Food and Drink in the Sky Club
Each Delta Sky Club is a bit different, but you can generally expect a variety of soups, salads, snacks, and hot entrees—often featuring chicken.
For those who aren’t hungry for a full meal, there’s a selection of soft drinks and even some Starbucks beverages.
Alcohol is also available for guests of legal age.
Food and non-alcoholic drinks are included for qualified members, though the cost of access depends on your membership status.
Membership Options and Benefits
There are two main types of Delta Sky Club memberships: Executive and Individual.
The Executive membership, which costs $1,495.50 or 149,500 miles annually, gives access to all lounges and allows members to bring up to two guests per visit.
On the other hand, Individual membership is priced at $695 or 69,500 miles per year, with guests being charged an additional fee.
Members of the Delta SkyMiles Program, as well as those holding a qualified American Express card or traveling on a same-day Delta One itinerary, can access the Sky Clubs as well.
No matter which membership level you have, Delta Sky Clubs offer plenty of perks, including free Wi-Fi, satellite TV, and even showers at select locations.
And with over 50 lounges worldwide, it’s clear why people are willing to pay to get a taste of the Sky Club experience—though it’s probably best to leave the shopping bags at home next time.