Editor's note: Delta shared several updates to its SkyMiles Program on Oct. 18, modifying some of the changes announced in September and adding several new benefits. Read the full story at the link below:

SkyMiles

Delta shares modifications, new benefits to SkyMiles loyalty program

Delta will adjust the number of Medallion Qualification Dollars (MQDs) required to achieve 2025 Medallion Status, further enhance the Million Miler program, update Delta Sky Club access policies for eligible Card Members and enhance options for Rollover Medallion Qualification Miles (MQMs).
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Delta is simplifying its award-winning SkyMiles Program, with Medallion Qualification Dollars serving as the only qualifier for Medallion Status.  

As you learn about all the ways to earn those MQDs toward Status —with flights, the MQD Boost benefit on select American Express Cards, car rentals and stays and Delta Vacations experiences — here are several things you should remember about the program and what changes for you. 

These changes won’t impact your 2024 Medallion Status — just how you earn for 2025. 

Status for 2024 is earned in 2023. These changes are first applicable in 2024 toward 2025 Status.  

Members won’t lose any Rollover MQMs accrued — you’ll have options to convert them. 

In early 2024, SkyMiles Members will be given a choice of converting any Rollover MQMs earned during 2023 to redeemable miles, MQDs, or a combination of both. Links to the selection page will be shared with Members via email, and customers will also be able to access the conversion page through the My SkyMiles page on Delta.com and the Fly Delta app. 

Million Milers move up in Complimentary Upgrade priority. 

Delta has refreshed its Complimentary Upgrade process for 2024, and Million Miler Status will move up in the hierarchy for Complimentary Upgrades to the third priority position.  

Million Miler Status will calculate through lifetime flight miles. 

Beginning Jan. 1, 2024, miles toward Million Miler Status will calculate through lifetime flight miles and no longer through MQMs. We will continue to track the miles you fly with us, and those who accumulate 1 million flight miles will be invited to join the Million Miler Program. Members’ MQM balances already earned toward Million Miler Status will remain, and flight miles will be added to these. 

For Delta SkyMiles American Express Card Members: MQD Waiver and Status Boost will end on Dec. 31, 2023. 

Given the streamlined changes to the Program and the introduction of the new MQD Boost benefit for select Delta SkyMiles American Express Cards, both the MQD Waiver and Status Boost benefits will end on Dec. 31, 2023.   

For the first time, SkyMiles Members living outside of the U.S. will now earn Status via MQDs.  

Until now, Members outside the U.S. earned Status based on MQMs or MQSs. Starting Jan. 1, currencies convert to USD at the standard exchange rate and will then convert from $1 USD to $1 MQD.