Delta recently made some changes to SkyClub access and a simplified rewards program. The changes were so poorly received that it was announced that they would be adjusted and those adjustments have now been announced. Changes are as follows:
- Delta SkyClub access changes:
- American Express Delta Reserve Card Members will now receive 15 days per year (up from 10 visits)
- American Express Platinum cardholders will now receive 10 days per year (up from 6 visits)
- All visits made in a 24-hour period will count as one day
- Access purchasable for $50 after the free visits are used
- MQD required to earn status reduced:
- Silver Medallion Status: from 6,000 to 5,000 MQDs
- Gold Medallion Status: from 12,000 to 10,000 MQDs
- Platinum Medallion Status: from 18,000 to 15,000 MQDs
- Diamond Medallion Status: from 35,000 to 28,000 MQDs
- MQD headstart for cardholders (one for each card type):
- American Express Delta Platinum/Reserve Card will receive $2,500 MQD towards status each year
- Million milers receive enhanced complimentary status:
- 6 million miles or more earns Delta 360o™ (previously Diamond Medallion)
- 5 million miles earns Delta 360o™ (previously Platinum Medallion)
- 4 million miles earns Diamond Medallion (previously Platinum Medallion)
- 3 million miles earns Diamond Medallion (previously Gold Medallion)
- 2 million miles earns Platinum Medallion (previously Gold Medallion)
- 1 million miles earns Gold Medallion (previously Silver Medallion)
- New choice benefits
- Re-introducing the Delta Sky Club Individual Membership for Diamond Medallion Members, in exchange for two Choice Benefit selections
- Increased amount of bonus miles: 35,000 for Diamond Medallion Members and 30,000 for Platinum Medallion Members
- Increasing Delta travel voucher to $350 for Diamond Medallion Members and $300 for Platinum Medallion Members
- A new Wheels Up statement flight credit
Our Verdict
The change from visits to day will be a big one for a lot of travelers, it’s nice to see increased number of days as well. I stopped caring about status with airlines a long time ago and I’m thankful I did, for those that are still on the road (or in the air I should say) a lot it’s nice to see some of these changes rolled back. Now let’s see what negative changes Delta decides to sneak in next year.