Delta Air Lines Basic Economy Changes
Earning miles and elite status on Delta Air Lines just got more complicated.
Delta, the first U.S. legacy carrier to offer basic economy fares, confirmed that passengers will no longer earn SkyMiles or elite status on these discounted airline tickets. As of December 31, travelers holding basic economy tickets will also lose the flexibility to make itinerary changes that was available during the pandemic.
The airline quietly announced these updates on its website last week, noting significant changes for 2022.
Changes to Ticket Earnings and Flexibility
Tickets booked on Delta after December 9 of this year for travel on or after January 1, 2022 will not accumulate award miles or contribute towards Medallion status. Consequently, this leaves United Airlines as the only major U.S. carrier that grants frequent flyer miles on basic economy tickets and counts those flights towards elite status.
American Airlines also offers frequent flyer miles for basic economy fares; however, these fares do not count towards elite status for its frequent flyers.
Flexibility on Basic Economy Tickets
Historically, basic economy fares have not permitted itinerary changes; however, airlines relaxed these rules during the pandemic. As vaccinations increased and travelers began to return to the skies, restrictions started to re-emerge.
Delta will continue to allow passengers to make changes to basic economy tickets until the end of this year, but this policy will change in 2022.
Starting next year, Delta intends to permit passengers to cancel their basic economy tickets and receive partial credits based on the original purchase price.
According to a Delta spokesperson, “Basic Economy fares were designed for those who prioritize price, and we know that even our most price-conscious customers value flexibility.” However, it’s important to note that changes will incur fees that could range between $99 and $199 deducted from the value of the basic economy ticket for adjustments to domestic itineraries.
Notably, passengers with Diamond and Platinum status will also be subject to change fees for basic economy tickets, underscoring the impact of these recent updates.