Delta Air Lines has announced significant changes to its rewards program, SkyMiles, which will impact access to the popular SkyClub and earning perks for American Express cardholders. These changes aim to balance the popularity of the clubs with the premium experience they provide for guests.
The changes to the SkyClub access are as follows:
1. American Express Delta SkyMiles Platinum and Business Platinum cardholders will no longer have access to the SkyClub starting from January 1.
2. American Express Delta SkyMiles Reserve and Reserve Business cardholders will be limited to only 10 visits per year starting from February 1, 2025. However, if they spend $75,000 on their card in a calendar year, they will have unlimited SkyClub access for the rest of that year.
3. American Express Platinum and Business Platinum cardholders will be allowed only six SkyClub visits per year starting from February 1, 2025. Similarly, spending $75,000 on their card in a calendar year will grant them unlimited SkyClub access for the remainder of that year.
4. Travelers flying economy class, regardless of their card, will no longer have access to the SkyClub beginning January 1.
In addition to the SkyClub changes, Delta is also revising the earning of Medallion Qualification Dollars (MQDs) as part of the revamp. MQDs determine Delta’s elite status and the changes will make accumulating non-travel-related benefits more challenging.
From January 1, 2024, Delta SkyMiles Platinum and Platinum Business Amex cardholders will earn $1 MQD for every $20 spent on everyday purchases, compared to the previous rate of $1 MQD for every $1 spent. Similarly, Delta SkyMiles Reserve and Reserve Business Amex cardholders will receive $1 MQD for every $10 spent on everyday purchases starting from January 1, 2024.
Effective January 1, 2024, Delta will exclusively use Medallion Qualification Dollars to earn Medallion status. Travelers will have the option to convert earned miles into MQDs. The MQD requirements for each Medallion status tier will also increase in 2024.
These changes are part of Delta’s ongoing efforts to enhance the SkyMiles program and provide a premium experience to its guests. It is important for Delta SkyMiles members and American Express cardholders to review the updated terms to better understand their benefits and limitations.
Sources: Delta Air Lines