ATLANTA -- Delta Air Lines Inc. launched a redesigned Web site Monday as part of its effort to improve efficiency and customer service.

The nation's third-largest carrier has been trying to encourage more customers to buy tickets on Delta.com -- even offering 1,000 bonus miles to members of its frequent flier program who do so.

Atlanta-based Delta said it has taken the self-service features on its Web site and repackaged them into a fresh design that speeds customers' navigation to find the information they need.

The airline said it surveyed hundreds of customers as part of the redesign.

Delta said the new site gives customers more control over their travel experience with online ticket changes, seat assignments and check in; the ability to cancel certain tickets within 24 hours; the ability to calculate award mileage; more international award travel booking capability; the ability to check in when connecting from Delta to certain other airlines; and much more.

Delta is trying to avoid bankruptcy amid persistently high fuel costs.

It said more than 10 million tickets are expected to be issued on the Web site in 2005 compared to seven million in 2004.

The airline’s goal is to have 28 percent of reservations issued from delta.com by year’s end, 35 percent by the end of 2006 and 45 percent in 2007.

"Additionally, we are marketing delta.com as a destination in and of itself, so we’ll change the home page monthly with picturesque travel destinations that enhance the online experience," said Paul Matsen, Delta’s chief marketing officer.

The airline plans a marketing blitz to promote the redesigned Web site.