With just two months left in 2023, time is running out for Delta Air Lines customers to qualify or requalify for elite status. If you haven’t already done so, it’s important to check your elite qualification metrics, tally up your travel for the remainder of the year, and determine where you stand in terms of elite status for next year. If you’re falling short of your goal, there are still some last-minute strategies you can employ to close the gap.
It’s worth noting that major changes to Delta’s elite status program will go into effect next year. As of January 1, 2024, Delta will consolidate all Medallion status earning activities into Medallion Qualification Dollars (MQDs), eliminating Medallion Qualification Miles (MQMs) and Medallion Qualification Segments (MQSs). However, for the remainder of this year, you still have the opportunity to qualify under the existing criteria.
One strategy to consider is spending on a Delta cobranded credit card. Some Delta credit cards allow cardholders to earn MQMs or unlock MQD waivers, which can help you reach a higher Medallion tier. For example, certain Delta SkyMiles Platinum and Reserve cards offer bonus MQMs for reaching specified spending thresholds. Additionally, spending on these cards can earn an MQD waiver for certain status levels. However, it’s important to note that these benefits will no longer be available starting next year.
Another option to boost your Delta status is through a status challenge. Historically, Delta has offered generous status challenges to its SkyMiles members. Unfortunately, the status match challenge is currently unavailable, likely due to the program changes. Nevertheless, it’s worth keeping this option in mind for future years if you’re still looking to elevate your Delta status.
If you have friends or family members who hold Platinum or Diamond Medallion status, they have the ability to gift you a lower tier of Medallion status through Delta’s Choice Benefits program. This can be a helpful way to achieve a higher status level if you have someone who is willing to help you out.
For those who can afford it, booking a private jet experience through Delta’s partnership with Wheels Up can automatically confer elite status. This option is quite expensive, but if you already use the service or have a business account with Wheels Up, it might be a viable way to bypass the other requirements and attain top-tier status.
Another strategy to consider is booking an award ticket. Delta now allows award tickets booked in Main Cabin or higher to earn MQDs and MQMs. This can be a cost-effective way to earn status if you have a stash of SkyMiles that you can redeem. However, it’s important to note that only Delta-ticketed and operated award tickets earn elite status metrics.
Lastly, leveraging partner fares can be a quick way to earn MQDs. Partner flights earn MQDs based on a percentage of the distance flown, rather than the amount spent. It’s important to be aware of the earning rates for specific carriers and fare classes, as some will be devalued next year. Make sure to complete these flights by December 31, 2023, and keep your boarding passes and flight confirmations to ensure proper credit.
In conclusion, even though time is running out, there are still strategies you can employ to qualify for the next tier of Delta Medallion elite status. It’s crucial to assess your current standing and determine how much further you need to go. By utilizing these last-minute earning strategies, you can ensure you reach your desired elite tier for next year, especially since this is the final year of qualifying with MQMs and MQSs.