The Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card is a credit card specifically designed for Delta loyalists who want to maximize their benefits and earn elite status. With a $350 annual fee, this card offers a range of perks that can make it worth the cost for frequent Delta flyers.
One of the standout benefits of the Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex is the annual companion certificate. After renewing your card each year, you’ll receive a certificate that allows you to book a round-trip, main cabin domestic flight for a companion. The companion ticket is valid for travel to all 50 U.S. states, including Hawaii and Alaska, as well as Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean. The only cost you’ll need to cover is taxes and fees, making this a valuable perk for those who frequently travel with a partner or family member.
Another perk of the Delta Platinum Amex is the ability to purchase Sky Club access on a per-visit basis. Delta Sky Club lounges offer a comfortable and relaxing space to wait for your flight, with complimentary snacks, beverages, and Wi-Fi. With this card, you can access the Sky Club for a fee each time you fly with Delta, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of lounge access without committing to an annual membership.
Additionally, the Delta Platinum Amex offers the first checked bag free on Delta flights for the cardholder and up to eight companions. This can result in significant savings, especially for those who frequently check bags when traveling. The card also provides a statement credit for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry, allowing you to breeze through security and customs lines.
In terms of earning miles, the Delta Platinum Amex offers 3 miles per dollar on purchases made directly with Delta and at hotels, 2 miles per dollar on purchases at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets, and 1 mile per dollar on all other eligible purchases. While these earning rates are decent, they may not be the best in their respective categories, so it’s important to consider if Delta miles are the most valuable airline currency for your travel needs.
One of the downsides of the Delta SkyMiles program is its reputation for devaluing miles and not having a published award chart. However, there are still opportunities to get value from your miles, especially during flash sales and when booking with Delta’s partner airlines.
Overall, the Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card can be a worthwhile choice for Delta loyalists who want to maximize their benefits and earn elite status. The annual fee may seem steep, but the perks, such as the annual companion certificate and free checked bag, can easily offset the cost for frequent Delta flyers. It’s important to assess your travel habits and consider if the benefits of this card align with your needs before applying.