Elite airline status is the holy grail for air travelers and Delta Air Lines just made achieving it harder.
The Atlanta-based carrier late Wednesday announced upcoming changes to its branded American Express cards that will reward big spenders. It's the latest example of a broader move by the airline to reserve its most desired benefits for an increasingly exclusive group of cardholders.
"They're focused on who is spending the most with Delta and who is spending the most with the SkyMiles credit cards, which is where they're making most of their money as an airline," said Gunnar Olson, a Thrifty Traveler reporter and flight deal analyst.
As a result of the changes, cardholders will need to charge more to their Delta credit cards to earn perks such as first-class upgrades, complimentary airport club access and more.
Delta also confirmed this week plans to cap the number of entries to its Sky Clubs starting Feb. 1, 2025 for AmEx Platinum and Reserve American Express cardholders. Those with the Platinum card will be allowed six visits per year, while Reserve holders will get 10 annual visits. Individuals holding both cards would get 16 visits per year, according to Thrifty Traveler.
And for those who book a basic economy ticket? No lounge access starting Jan. 1, 2024, regardless if they carry one of Delta's premium credit cards.
Over time, Delta has been shifting its frequent flyer program away from rewarding miles flown toward higher spending. These latest changes will raise the spending floor even higher.
Achieving airline status is its own subculture, with websites, blogs and experts dedicated entirely to the topic. Many air travelers have gamified the attainment of status. But to the average consumer, understanding the process — and terminology — can be difficult.