Miles and milestones: 15 Million Miler talks all things SkyMiles

We asked our most frequent flier how he uses his miles, what tips and tricks he’s picked up and what he’s looking forward to ahead of Delta’s centennial year.

Jacqueline Lamothe

Jan 13, 2025 12:00pm

Saying Todd O., Delta’s most frequent flyer, has traveled extensively over the years is an understatement. Between New York, Zurich and beyond, he has accumulated both rich experiences and (now) more than 15 million miles. Whether they’re Million Milers, or once-a-year fliers, travelers can learn a lot from Todd’s experience and how his SkyMiles Membership has shaped and enhanced his travel journeys.

BENEFITS UNLOCKED

From Priority Boarding to elite status and recognition, Todd greatly values the varied benefits of being a SkyMiles Medallion Member.

A few benefits that Todd greatly appreciates during his travel journey are access to a dedicated Medallion phone line for service and support, distinguished check-in spaces for Delta One customers at select hubs (LAX, JFK) and substantial, worthwhile Choice Benefits available to Diamond and Platinum Medallion Members.

“This program has provided tools to smooth out my journey and actually make it quicker and more efficient,” Todd said. “It goes along well with Delta’s solid reputation of operational reliability.”

All Members have exclusive access to stay connected through free Wi-Fi by T-Mobile with access to Paramount+, New York Times Games and more on most domestic flights and Delta Sync seatback – an on demand smart TV with features designed to feel like streaming services Members have used at home.

Todd utilizes his Delta Sky Club Executive Membership to access Delta Sky Clubs across the system to recharge while boosting his productivity. Since he travels for work often, Todd typically finds respite in the Delta One Lounge in New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in between flights and during long layovers before boarding Delta One.

Customer Experience

Delta One Lounge at New York-JFK ushers in a new era of premium travel for airline

The Delta One Lounge at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport – the first of its kind, and larger than any Delta Sky Club – offers a variety of experiences and amenities for the premium traveler.

Additionally, Todd values the logistical setup of the SkyMiles Program – allowing him greater opportunities to earn Medallion Status through Award Travel and acquiring miles that don’t expire so he “doesn’t have to worry about extending miles periodically, unlike other travel programs.”

While Todd has enjoyed these perks throughout his travel journeys, he values the personalized care and service he receives from Delta people the most.

“What drew me to Delta in the first place was the people -- the hospitality is warm, comfortable and welcoming,” Todd said. “Since I travel so much, sometimes I see these folks a lot more than my own family. I’ve made many great friends here since joining the program over 30 years ago.”

Not yet a Member? Join now for free on SkyMiles.com.

Centennial Moment: Did you know?

Delta launched its Frequent Flyer program in 1981. The name was modified to SkyMiles in 1995. Delta is committed to fueling our next 100 years with innovative and rewarding customer experiences.

HOW TODD USES HIS MILES

Whether in the air or on the ground, Todd takes advantage of his membership in various ways.

One such avenue he uses for earning miles is through his Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card and the limited-edition Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card (made from a retired 747-400) to earn miles on everyday purchases. With the Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express card, Todd can get his first checked bag free, priority boarding, 15% off award travel and more. The Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express card offers the same benefits as the Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card plus Delta Sky Club access, elite status and in-flight upgrades.

Additionally, at the end of the year, Todd contributes miles to SkyWish, which offers SkyMiles Members the opportunity to give back. This past year, Todd donated some of his miles to the American Red Cross, the Wounded Warrior Project and more.

MORE WAYS TO EARN

There are additional ways SkyMiles Members can accumulate miles – including SkyMiles Shopping and SkyMiles Dining – where Members can earn miles when purchasing items through approved retail partners. Members can also earn miles when booking with Delta Vacations for vacation packages, including hotel stays and car rentals.

“What keeps me loyal after all these years is the continuous improvement Delta is committed to doing for a better customer experience overall,” Todd said.