Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex Analyzing the Value Proposition for Frequent Delta Flyers

Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex Analyzing the Value Proposition for Frequent Delta Flyers - Earning Medallion Qualification Dollars for Delta status

Reaching Delta's elite status, known as Medallion status, hinges on accumulating Medallion Qualification Dollars (MQDs). The path to these tiers has become tougher for 2024, especially for the top tier, Diamond. Reaching that level now necessitates earning a hefty 28,000 MQDs, up from 20,000.

Fortunately, Delta provides multiple avenues for accumulating these MQDs. The most straightforward way is through spending on Delta flights, whether directly on Delta or their partner airlines. Spending with co-branded Delta American Express cards is another method, including those that offer a small bonus per dollar spent through a "boost" program. Delta's credit card program also presents a path for waivers, meaning you can bypass MQDs altogether if you spend a certain amount with an eligible card. However, the specific amounts can be high, and these programs can be complex.

The system of MQD accumulation is key to accessing Delta's coveted elite benefits, but navigating the different ways to earn them can be cumbersome. In a world of increasingly competitive airline loyalty programs, understanding how these qualification dollars work is crucial for maximizing your flying experience with Delta.

Reaching Delta's elite Medallion status hinges on accumulating Medallion Qualification Dollars (MQDs). You can earn these MQDs in various ways, not just by flying Delta. Spending with partnered hotels, rental car companies, and a select group of retailers contributes to the total, expanding opportunities for frequent travelers to climb the ranks.

The way MQDs are calculated is pretty straightforward. Delta uses a percentage of the base fare, excluding taxes and fees, as the foundation. This percentage changes based on the class of travel, which means those who fly business or first class can accumulate MQDs faster.

Delta's Medallion tiers—Silver, Gold, Platinum, and Diamond—have distinct MQD requirements, each forming a rung in a ladder. Interestingly, the jump in required MQDs between each level is, in many cases, larger than the actual benefits you receive, hinting at the possibility of decreasing returns for the effort put into achieving higher tiers.

A technique called "status matching" could accelerate the process of attaining Delta status. Individuals who hold elite status with other airlines may be able to transfer it to Delta, providing a head start in earning MQDs. This approach could be particularly helpful for travelers used to other airlines but are drawn to Delta's expansive network.

Delta has a history of offering limited-time promotions or bonus programs designed to accelerate MQD accumulation, often tied to seasonal travel periods or certain destinations. Keeping a close eye out for these deals can be beneficial for anyone gunning for elite status.

The Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express card can also be a helpful tool. Every dollar spent with this card can count toward your MQD total, transforming everyday spending into a route to elite status.

There are bonus MQD opportunities that can be tied to specific flight segments, particularly long international journeys. This aspect can help build momentum without requiring a large increase in actual miles flown.

Delta's MQD requirements are reviewed on a yearly basis, which means that business travelers, in particular, might find it strategically advantageous to concentrate their travels within a single calendar year. That way, they could get to a certain status quicker and avoid starting from scratch at the start of the next year.

Delta's loyalty program operates with multipliers that are applied to different spending categories. Knowing which multipliers are in play is key for travelers wanting to optimize earning potential. Delta might, for instance, offer a 2x MQD promotion for bookings made through their app.

Delta has modified its Medallion status criteria in the past, changing both the MQD and mileage thresholds. Being informed about these alterations is important for seasoned flyers who wish to retain or boost their status over time.

What else is in this post?

1. Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex Analyzing the Value Proposition for Frequent Delta Flyers - Earning Medallion Qualification Dollars for Delta status
2. Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex Analyzing the Value Proposition for Frequent Delta Flyers - Annual companion certificate for domestic main cabin travel
3. Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex Analyzing the Value Proposition for Frequent Delta Flyers - First checked bag free on Delta flights
4. Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex Analyzing the Value Proposition for Frequent Delta Flyers - Priority boarding and 20% inflight savings on Delta
5. Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex Analyzing the Value Proposition for Frequent Delta Flyers - Accelerated miles earning on Delta purchases and hotels
6. Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex Analyzing the Value Proposition for Frequent Delta Flyers - Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit

Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex Analyzing the Value Proposition for Frequent Delta Flyers - Annual companion certificate for domestic main cabin travel

The Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex card offers an annual companion certificate for domestic main cabin travel, a perk that can significantly enhance the travel experience for frequent Delta flyers. This benefit allows cardholders, after renewing their card, to bring a companion along on a roundtrip flight within the continental US, to Mexico, the Caribbean, or Central America for just the government-imposed taxes and fees, capped at $80. This can be a fantastic deal, especially for those traveling with family or friends.

Starting in February 2024, Delta expanded the eligibility of this companion certificate to include flights to locations beyond the lower 48 states, opening up more destinations for travelers. This makes the certificate even more appealing, potentially saving a significant amount on travel to more far-flung destinations.

However, the companion certificate isn't always a guaranteed win. There's a potential downside: using the certificate for booking can, in some cases, push the price of the primary ticket higher. This means that sometimes it could be less expensive to book two separate tickets. It's crucial to compare prices carefully before utilizing the companion certificate.

Ultimately, the Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex companion certificate is a valuable perk that can make a big difference in travel costs, but, like any travel perk, requires thoughtful planning to ensure you're truly getting the best deal. It's a benefit that contributes to the overall attractiveness of higher-tier Delta credit cards, especially for frequent travelers who often find themselves booking multiple tickets.

The Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express card includes an annual companion certificate for domestic flights in the main cabin. This perk essentially lets you get a second roundtrip ticket for the price of government-imposed taxes and fees, which can usually stay under $80. It's a good deal if you're planning to travel with someone else domestically, but there are some details to keep in mind.


Previously, the certificate was primarily used for flights within the lower 48 states but, as of February 1st, 2024, that changed. Now, you can also use it for flights to Alaska, Hawaii, and other US territories. However, you need to be aware that utilizing the certificate sometimes increases the base cost of the primary ticket. In some scenarios, it might end up being cheaper to purchase two separate tickets instead of using the companion certificate. This begs the question, when is the companion certificate truly valuable?


There's a bit of a catch here. It's not just handed out to everyone with any Delta credit card. It's specific to higher-tier cards like the Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex. And in the current competitive environment of airline loyalty programs, it makes these higher-fee cards more appealing for frequent flyers who want that extra perk. Delta is attempting to lock in loyalty through this strategy, aiming to make its credit cards more desirable.



The companion certificate works for flights within the continental US, but also covers parts of the Caribbean, Mexico, and Central America. It's not meant for just any random trip; it's intended for those planning leisure or family travel. The way that Delta uses these certificates to stimulate demand might even lead to an increase in travel to particular destinations, where the cost savings might be more substantial.

The certificate itself isn't valid indefinitely. You get a new one each year after you renew the card. This kind of time constraint might influence travelers to try to schedule a trip around that expiry date, which could introduce new travel patterns influenced by these perks.

From a pure engineering standpoint, Delta's companion certificate might be a clever way to dynamically manage passenger loads. If they can manage to entice people to travel on routes that would otherwise be less desirable, it potentially generates a more even spread of traffic across the Delta network. It's an intriguing optimization problem that airline loyalty programs like Delta SkyMiles tackle in their business model.

Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex Analyzing the Value Proposition for Frequent Delta Flyers - First checked bag free on Delta flights

Delta offers a valuable perk for frequent flyers who often check bags: a complimentary first checked bag on their flights. This benefit is available to those who hold the Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express card, potentially saving them up to $70 per person on a roundtrip ticket. For families traveling together, this can translate to considerable savings, potentially as much as $280 for a family of four.

The value of this perk extends beyond the cardholder. It also covers up to eight traveling companions who are on the same reservation. This feature can be a major advantage when traveling in a group, making it significantly more affordable to check multiple bags.

While free checked bags are a perk offered by other credit cards or Medallion status, it's one of several appealing benefits offered by Delta's premium credit cards. When evaluating the overall value proposition of different Delta SkyMiles credit cards, it is important for frequent flyers to assess how perks like this contribute to their travel spending. Understanding how these perks fit into your personal travel habits and Delta loyalty strategy is key to making the most of your flying experience.

1. **First Bag Free: A Delta Credit Card Perk:** Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express cardholders get their first checked bag free on Delta flights, saving roughly $35 each way, which can add up to $70 for a round trip. This benefit can be especially valuable for those traveling with luggage, potentially mitigating a substantial part of overall travel costs.

2. **A Differentiator in a Competitive Landscape:** In today's airline industry, where many low-cost carriers charge for checked bags, Delta's offering of a free first bag for select cardholders stands out. It adds a layer of appeal for frequent travelers considering their options when choosing an airline loyalty program.

3. **Variable Baggage Fees Across Airlines:** Checked baggage fees can differ wildly between airlines, with some budget carriers hitting travelers with fees upwards of $70 for the very first checked bag. Having this fee waived with a Delta credit card can thus contribute to a more affordable travel experience, especially on shorter, domestic routes.

4. **The Potential for Significant Savings:** Frequent travelers who use this free checked bag benefit can rack up substantial savings over time. Someone taking four round trips a year could potentially avoid up to $280 in baggage charges just by utilizing the benefit of their credit card. This shows how a seemingly minor benefit can lead to considerable cost reductions over time.

5. **Family and Group Travel Advantages:** Families or groups traveling together can reap major benefits from the free checked bag perk. A group of four could save up to $280 on a roundtrip flight if each person had the qualifying card. This translates into significant cost savings that make group travel more affordable.

6. **Potential for Increased Mileage Earnings:** Occasionally, Delta will run promotions that increase the number of SkyMiles earned when a free checked bag is used. This offers travelers a bonus in addition to the direct cost savings, providing an added layer of incentive to book with Delta, particularly on routes like the ones to Japan, where accumulating a high number of miles is a key goal for many.

7. **Revenue Optimization from Delta's Perspective:** The free checked bag strategy likely plays into Delta's revenue management. By offering this perk for certain cardholders, Delta might encourage travelers to pick them over competitors based on the overall travel cost. They could be trying to increase market share and maintain the revenue levels in the face of competition.

8. **A Benefit Primarily Focused on Domestic Travel:** While this first checked bag perk primarily applies to domestic travel, it can be viewed as part of Delta's strategy to stay competitive in international markets, particularly where baggage fees are more common. It may influence traveler choice and encourage them to think about Delta when planning international trips.


9. **Influence on Booking Patterns:** The availability of a free checked bag can influence when and how travelers book flights. They might prioritize routes with the free checked bag option even if the base fare is slightly higher than a competitor's. This could possibly lead to higher advance booking volumes for certain routes or during specific periods.


10. **Continuous Improvement in Baggage Handling:** Delta is known to listen to customer feedback about their checked baggage processes. Based on the insights they gather, they have implemented improvements like better online tools and more frequent real-time updates to luggage status. This is part of a broader effort to make the whole baggage experience smoother and more transparent, particularly for those using the free checked bag benefit that Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express cardholders enjoy.

Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex Analyzing the Value Proposition for Frequent Delta Flyers - Priority boarding and 20% inflight savings on Delta

The Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex card offers a couple of perks that can enhance the flying experience for frequent Delta flyers: priority boarding and a 20% discount on inflight purchases. Priority boarding is a perk that can reduce the stress of boarding, especially for those who like to stow their carry-on luggage in the overhead bins quickly. The 20% discount on meals and beverages bought on board can be a small yet welcome bonus, especially on longer flights. These benefits can contribute to a more comfortable journey. However, keep in mind that the overall value proposition for you will depend on your travel habits and whether the annual fee is justified by the perks. As the airline industry evolves and passenger preferences change, understanding which perks add value for you becomes critical to optimizing your travel experience with Delta and their partners.

1. **Boarding Earlier: A Competitive Edge?** The Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex card offers priority boarding, which allows cardholders to board ahead of the general passenger throng. This feature, although seemingly trivial, can potentially save some time and reduce the scramble for overhead bin space. The question is, how much time is actually saved during boarding when compared to a more streamlined, synchronized boarding process that some airlines experiment with? How does the efficiency of this boarding practice compare across different Delta aircraft and routes?

2. **Inflight Savings: A True Deal?** Another feature of the Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex card is a 20% discount on food and drinks purchased onboard Delta flights. This discount is credited back to your statement, rather than being a direct reduction at the point of purchase. This feature appears to be mostly geared towards Delta's in-flight catering business, as it potentially stimulates more onboard consumption. However, how often do Delta flights offer a variety of meals and snacks? Is this 20% discount typically worth it given the costs involved in sourcing these food and drinks in the air?

3. **Incentivizing Passenger Behavior:** Airlines, as businesses, are always looking for ways to improve their bottom line. The question is, are these added perks genuinely valued by the customer? The card's benefits, such as priority boarding, seem to push passengers towards a particular behavioral pattern, aiming to create brand loyalty through a perceived value. This type of strategy is part of a larger picture and begs the question whether the discounts and added features really make passengers choose Delta when faced with competitive alternatives on a similar route.


4. **Simplifying Choice Through Discounts:** Passengers might be more likely to purchase inflight meals and snacks if they're slightly cheaper. This idea is central to how discounts influence behavior. The more tempting the option, the higher the likelihood of passengers indulging in that behavior. However, are these decisions really "easier" for the passenger or are they essentially nudged into buying more by Delta? How does this strategy compare to strategies that other airlines employ to increase sales of onboard food and drinks?

5. **Easing Pre-Flight Jitters?** Priority boarding might also help alleviate some anxieties associated with flying. The sooner you're on the plane, the less time you need to spend waiting in the crowded boarding area. It's interesting to wonder if this element has a measurable effect on flight experience. Does it affect the overall rating of the airline for frequent flyers, and how does this psychological factor affect the bottom line?

6. **Are Satisfied Customers Loyal Customers?** These perks seem to be designed to increase passenger satisfaction, and higher satisfaction is often believed to lead to improved customer loyalty. Yet, what other factors play into a traveler's decision to fly with a particular airline? The effectiveness of these strategies hinges on understanding whether frequent flyers truly value them and whether they choose Delta based on these features. Do these perks affect how customers view Delta compared to airlines that offer other rewards?

7. **Impact on Passenger Volume and Revenue:** Airlines care about filling seats and getting a good return on each flight. The question arises whether Delta's priority boarding system can help to balance this fine line. By offering perks designed to attract frequent business travelers who might be more likely to arrive promptly, Delta aims to create a more dependable stream of passenger flow. Does this strategy actually increase the regularity of revenue across different flight segments and types of airplanes?

8. **Are These Perks Truly Financially Attractive?** For frequent travelers, the value of these perks adds up over time. Whether this accumulation translates into a noticeable cost savings for them is something to ponder. It would be insightful to conduct a deep analysis of Delta's route structure, the costs associated with snacks and meals at different altitudes and distances traveled to understand if these seemingly small discounts amount to a significant benefit in the long run.


9. **Choice of Route: Influence of Perks:** Delta is trying to influence where people choose to fly. The question is, does the convenience and perceived value associated with benefits like priority boarding actually impact the travel routes chosen by Delta SkyMiles members? It's a complex question about the factors that drive flight booking decisions. Do the perks have a measurable impact on the selection of routes, and are there any limitations to Delta's efforts to control the destinations customers travel to?

10. **The Big Picture of Loyalty:** In the complex world of airline loyalty programs, Delta's approach integrates multiple perks into a larger strategy. The overall idea is to make travelers feel valued and, as a result, increase the likelihood of them consistently flying with Delta. However, is this truly a long-term sustainable strategy, or does it need further refinement, given the competitive landscape of the airline industry? Does this approach align with broader trends in passenger behavior and preferences? How does Delta's approach measure up to the strategies of competitors?

Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex Analyzing the Value Proposition for Frequent Delta Flyers - Accelerated miles earning on Delta purchases and hotels

The Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex card offers a compelling way to accelerate your SkyMiles accumulation, particularly for those who frequently fly Delta or book hotels. You can earn up to 8 miles per dollar spent on Delta purchases, including 5 miles per dollar on Delta flights and a bonus 3 miles for using the card specifically. This means your Delta-related spending can quickly generate a significant number of miles. Beyond flights, you can also rack up miles through various hotel partnerships associated with the card. Essentially, everyday purchases can potentially contribute to your travel rewards.

However, the card's focus on Delta-centric earning opportunities might not be ideal for everyone. If you travel frequently but don't primarily rely on Delta for flights or choose diverse hotel options, the card's accelerated earning features might not be as useful. Savvy travelers need to consider the overall cost of the card and weigh the potential benefits against their individual travel patterns. It's important to assess whether the card's earning structure truly benefits you or if another strategy might be more efficient in the long run.

1. **Hotel Stays and SkyMiles:** Delta partners with certain hotels, allowing you to earn SkyMiles on your hotel spending. In many cases, the earning rates are comparable or even surpass those you'd get from flying Delta. This could be a big boost to your mileage accumulation, especially if you travel often for business or vacation.

2. **Miles Beyond Flights:** The Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express card doesn't limit miles to airline purchases. It also allows you to rack up miles on everyday purchases like dining and groceries. This broader earning opportunity gives you more ways to accumulate miles and potentially makes it easier to reach your redemption goals for future flights.

3. **Synergies Between Programs:** Delta's partnerships with programs like Hilton Honors can make your miles go further. You can sometimes trade those hotel loyalty points into SkyMiles. This gives you another option to use your spending in one area and turn it into rewards in a different area, like effectively doubling your gains.

4. **Extra Perks in Hotels:** Using your Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex card for hotels might unlock even more perks like discounts on room rates or chances for complimentary upgrades at certain participating hotels. This adds to the value beyond simply earning miles.

5. **Tailored Earning:** If you are a frequent Delta flyer, you can strategically choose your hotels to maximize your SkyMiles earnings. For example, if you attend a business conference, you can pick a partner hotel to benefit from the event and gain extra miles at the same time.

6. **MQD Optimization:** Many of Delta's hotel partners contribute towards Medallion Qualification Dollars (MQDs). This means you can build towards status even when you're not flying. This emphasizes the importance of considering all spending and not just flying when striving to reach elite status.

7. **Bonus Opportunities:** Delta frequently runs promotions that increase the rate at which you can earn SkyMiles on hotel bookings. Staying alert to these promotions can enhance your earning potential during certain periods.

8. **Corporate Travel Benefits:** If you travel for work, you might be able to combine Delta SkyMiles rewards with discounts offered by your company. This strategy offers a chance to both save money and earn extra SkyMiles. This way, business trips can be a path to gaining more rewards than just from personal leisure travel.

9. **Package Deals:** Delta bundles flights and hotel stays into packages where you can earn SkyMiles at potentially favorable rates. This approach could help you save money and still make progress on your travel goals, whether you’re aiming for a certain vacation or elite status.

10. **Competitive Landscape:** When you compare earning structures across airlines, you find that Delta's hotel partnerships offer a greater variety of rewards than many other airlines. Understanding this distinction could impact your airline choice, depending on how you travel and where you spend your money.

Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex Analyzing the Value Proposition for Frequent Delta Flyers - Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit

The Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex card provides a credit of up to $100 towards Global Entry application fees every four years and up to $85 for TSA PreCheck application fees every 4.5 years. These credits are a welcome perk for frequent travelers as they can help offset the cost of these services that make airport experiences smoother. Global Entry is for pre-approved travelers who want expedited entry to the US, while TSA PreCheck offers faster security screening at participating airports. These are both highly beneficial for frequent flyers, especially those who prioritize speed and convenience.

By covering the fees for these programs, the Delta SkyMiles Platinum card becomes a more attractive option for those who fly with Delta often. It's worth noting that while this credit is helpful, the overall value of the card really depends on your travel habits and how much you value these services. Ultimately, the Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit offered by the Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex card can save you money and potentially make your travels a bit less stressful. It's a definite bonus for those who value efficiency and want to minimize time spent in lines at airports.

1. **Statement Credits for Expedited Travel:** The Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex offers a statement credit of up to $100 for Global Entry application fees every four years, and up to $85 for TSA PreCheck every 4.5 years. This essentially reduces the cost of these services for cardholders, making them a more appealing option for frequent travelers.

2. **TSA PreCheck's Time-Saving Advantages:** TSA PreCheck, as indicated by various studies, can significantly reduce wait times at security checkpoints. Instead of the usual 30-minute average wait, PreCheck travelers often experience waits of around 5 minutes. This benefit is especially valuable for busy travelers and those who prioritize efficiency at the airport.

3. **Global Entry: A Broader Benefit:** While TSA PreCheck expedites security screening within the US, Global Entry offers that plus faster customs and immigration clearance at US entry points for pre-approved, low-risk travelers. This is a compelling reason to consider Global Entry, especially if you frequently travel internationally. It's important to understand the scope of each program, as Global Entry offers the advantages of TSA PreCheck but not vice versa.

4. **The Longer-Term Value of Expedited Travel:** The benefits of these expedited services can accumulate over time. For travelers who frequently travel, the reduced hassle, potential for quicker connections, and lower costs due to efficient travel routines can lead to a very significant return on the initial investment. This underscores the potential of these fee reimbursements to become a significant part of the card's overall value for frequent travelers.

5. **Likelihood of Approval:** Global Entry and TSA PreCheck both have relatively high approval rates, with Global Entry claiming over 90% in some years. This suggests that many people qualify for the program, making it a safer bet than some other travel enhancements.

6. **Traveling with Families:** TSA PreCheck offers a benefit for families: children under 12 can travel with a parent who has PreCheck without requiring their own membership. This simplifies and potentially reduces the costs associated with family trips, making these programs even more appealing for parents of young children.

7. **Security Measures and Perceptions:** The TSA has attributed the rise in TSA PreCheck adoption to improved security measures and processes. The increased efficiency also appears to have contributed to a positive perception of travel among frequent flyers, who may find these programs to be a worthwhile investment.

8. **Comparing Cost and Potential Savings:** While the application fee for either program is around $100, some industry analysts believe that the potential savings related to time, fewer stress and missed connections could be thousands of dollars annually for very frequent travelers, especially those who often fly internationally. This makes these credits a more valuable part of the overall travel proposition.


9. **Increasing Global Entry Usage:** The number of Global Entry members has been on the rise, with almost 4 million enrolled in 2023, indicating that a growing number of travelers see the value in programs like these. It's noteworthy that this trend reflects the increasing value that travelers place on convenience and speed when they travel.

10. **The Broader Value Proposition:** The Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit adds to the overall appeal of the Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex. Rather than just focusing on mile accrual, the card helps to provide a more seamless travel experience. This reinforces the card's utility for frequent Delta fliers who are seeking a comprehensive travel solution.