Summary
Delta Loyalty Program Revamp
Delta Air Lines revealed a highly-anticipated revamp to its loyalty program on Wednesday, following swift backlash over previously-announced changes. The carrier, which in September acknowledged that it would be harder to earn status in 2024, confirmed to iBestTravel on Wednesday that it has walked back its initial changes after the airline eliminated Medallion Qualification Segments (MQS) and Medallion Qualification Miles (MQMs), while increasing its spending thresholds for Medallion Qualifying Dollars (MQDs).
Changes to MQD Requirements
“I have read hundreds of your emails, and what’s been most clear to me is how much you love Delta and the disappointment many of you felt by the significance of the changes,” Bastian wrote in an email to customers shared with iBestTravel. “I appreciate your opinions and understand your disappointment. Your voice matters, and we are listening.”
Now, Delta will reduce the number of MQDs travelers need to spend to reach different medallion status levels:
- 5,000 MQDs for Silver Medallion status, down from 6,000 MQDs
- 10,000 MQDs for Gold status, down from 12,000 MQDs
- 15,000 MQDs for Platinum status, down from 18,000 MQDs
- 28,000 MQDs for Diamond status, down from 35,000 MQDs
This change is significant as it makes it easier for travelers to achieve their desired loyalty status more efficiently.
Updates on Delta Sky Club Access
Moreover, Delta has revisited its earlier plans to limit access to its Delta Sky Club lounges in 2025. Starting February 1, 2025, American Express Platinum cardholders will be allowed to use the lounge 10 times per year, up from the previously-announced 6 visits. Delta SkyMiles Reserve and Delta SkyMiles Reserve Business American Express card members will enjoy increased access as well, with 15 visits per year, an improvement from the previously-announced 10 visits.
Additionally, card members who spend $75,000 on an eligible card within a calendar year will gain unlimited lounge access. Medallion Members will also have the option to purchase an annual individual Delta Sky Club membership for $695. Furthermore, card members will have the opportunity to purchase access for $50 per day after exhausting their allotted days.
Introduction of New Choice Benefits
Furthermore, the airline will introduce new choice benefits, including an MQD accelerator offering Platinum Medallion members $1,000 and Diamond Medallion members $2,000. Additionally, Delta will present select passengers with the ability to opt for special multi-year options to roll over their MQMs. This enhancement reflects Delta’s recognition of the value its loyal customers bring to the airline.
While Delta has previously made it more challenging to earn loyalty status, this responsive move and the introduction of added benefits demonstrate the airline’s commitment to its customers. Furthermore, competitors like Alaska Airlines and JetBlue have recognized this shift in loyalty dynamics by agreeing to match status levels for Delta customers.
