Delta Air Lines is making significant changes to its frequent flyer status and airport lounge access policies, following in the footsteps of other major carriers. Starting on January 1, Delta customers will earn elite Medallion status solely based on their spending, shifting away from the previous combination of dollars spent with the airline and the number of flights taken. This move mirrors the approach taken by American Airlines earlier this year.
The new requirements for earning Medallion status with Delta are as follows:
Silver Medallion: 6,000 Medallion Qualifying Dollars (MQDs)
Gold Medallion: 12,000 MQDs
Platinum Medallion: 18,000 MQDs
Diamond Medallion: 35,000 MQDs
Customers will earn 1 Medallion Qualifying Dollar for every $1 spent on Delta flights, car rentals, hotels, and vacation packages booked through the airline. However, for dollars spent through co-branded American Express cards, the earning ratio differs. Delta SkyMiles Reserve and Reserve Business American Express card members will earn 1 Medallion Qualifying Dollar for every $10 spent on the card, while Delta SkyMiles Platinum and Platinum Business American Express Card Members will earn 1 Medallion Qualifying Dollar for every $20 spent.
Additionally, Delta is imposing changes to its airport lounge access policies. Starting from February 1, 2025, American Express Platinum and Platinum Business cardholders will receive six Sky Club visits a year unless they spend $75,000 on the card within a calendar year. Delta SkyMiles Reserve and Reserve Business cardholders will have ten Sky Club visits a year, with the option to bypass the limit by spending $75,000 annually.
These changes aim to address overcrowding issues at Delta’s Sky Club lounges. To accommodate premium customers and maintain a high-quality lounge experience, Delta and American Express have made these adjustments, which align with industry trends and efforts to prioritize elite and high-spending travelers.
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