Major Changes to Delta SkyMiles In 2024. Simpler?
Delta just announced major changes to its Delta SkyMiles program for 2024. It looks like if SkyMiles was trying to answer to American’s AAdvantage loyalty points simplification earlier this year, and go full-thrust towards a revenue-based program for both earnings and elite status qualifications.
I used to be a hardcore SkyMiles member (reaching Diamond three years in a row back in 2013), because I used to travel heavily between Europe and Argentina via Atlanta. Delta had heavily discounted rates in business class if you connected with them.
For loyal SkyMiles Members, these updates might promise a more streamlined and rewarding experience. Whether you’re taking to the skies or making everyday purchases, climbing the Medallion ladder just got a whole lot easier.
Delta SkyMiles in 2024: What’s Changing?
1. A Streamlined Path to Medallion Status
Starting from January 1, 2024, SkyMiles Members living outside of the U.S. will see a heavy simplification in the process of achieving Medallion Status. Gone are the days of tracking miles (MQMs) or flight segments (MQSs). Instead, all that matters now are the Medallion Qualification Dollars (MQDs). These MQDs, for international members, will be determined based on the USD value at the time of ticketing or purchase, with all currencies being translated directly to MQD at a 1:1 ratio.
2. Diverse Avenues to Rack Up MQDs
Not only will members be able to earn MQDs on Delta flights starting January 1, 2024, but Delta is also extending this benefit to other areas. Members can now earn MQDs through transactions on the new Delta SkyMiles co-branded credit card available in Japan, as well as on car rentals and hotel bookings made through delta.com.
3. Medallion Status Thresholds for 2025
With these expanded avenues to accumulate MQDs, SkyMiles Members should be aware of the new thresholds set for 2024 to achieve their 2025 Medallion Status:
- Silver Medallion: $6,000 MQDs
- Gold Medallion: $12,000 MQDs
- Platinum Medallion: $18,000 MQDs
- Diamond Medallion: $35,000 MQDs
Conclusion and Read More
Both Delta and United got really messy in terms of qualification, when they started moving towards revenue-based models, and these changes for sure feel like an improvement. However, I still feel that American did a better job at introducing a single currency. My impression is that people don’t want to mess around with MDQ and MQM, and just want a simple way to track progress towards status.
You can check out the full announcement here.
