Delta Changing Rules , to Make It Harder , to Earn Elite Status.
Delta Air Lines has announced changes to how customers earn rewards and gain access to the carrier's airport lounges.
CNBC reports that the changes come as the latest sign that air travel's era of mass luxury may be coming to an end.
.
Beginning on January 1, customers can only earn Delta Medallion status based on their spending, similar to a model recently adopted by American Airlines.
Many major airlines have been raising the requirements to earn elite status amid a surge in customer spending, which has increased the ranks of elite airline status members.
Elite status typically comes with a number of perks, including early boarding, free upgrades and access to an airline's airport lounge.
Elite status typically comes with a number of perks, including early boarding, free upgrades and access to an airline's airport lounge.
We want customers to be able to receive status with activity beyond just air travel, Dwight James, Delta’s senior vice president of customer engagement and loyalty, via CNBC.
In 2024, Delta customers can earn one Medallion Qualifying Dollar for every actual dollar they spend on flights, car rentals and hotels booked through the airline.
CNBC reports that the airline has also raised requirements for dollars spent through co-branded American Express cards.
.
For every $10 spent on the card, Delta SkyMiles Reserve and Reserve Business American Express card members will now earn one Medallion Qualifying Dollar.
For every $10 spent on the card, Delta SkyMiles Reserve and Reserve Business American Express card members will now earn one Medallion Qualifying Dollar.
Meanwhile, Delta SkyMiles Platinum and Platinum Business American Express Card Members earn one Medallion Qualifying Dollar for every $20 spent
