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Delta Air Lines unveils significant shifts in passenger benefits, notably in lounge access and complimentary amenities. These changes address hub overcrowding, with cutbacks affecting specific cardholders. SkyMiles program also to be revamped.
Starting February 1, 2025, Delta will cap the number of entries to its Sky Clubs for American Express Platinum Card holders and Delta Reserve American Express Card holders. Platinum Card holders will have a limit of six visits per year, while Delta Reserve Card holders will be allowed 10 annual visits.
Effective January 1, 2024, passengers with basic economy tickets, irrespective of having a Platinum Card or other premium credit card, will no longer have access to Delta's lounges. This change addresses overcrowding issues in Delta's major hubs, such as JFK Airport in New York. Delta plans to open a second lounge in Terminal 4 at JFK to alleviate the congestion.
The announcement will likely have repercussions for American Express, as the Platinum Card's popularity among Millennials and Gen-Z is largely due to its travel perks. Free access to Delta's Sky Clubs has been a significant selling point for the card, justifying its high annual fee. Consequently, American Express customers may reevaluate the value of their cards.
However, access to AmEx's 15 Centurion-branded airport lounges remains unaffected by these changes. American Express confirmed that despite the modified access to Sky Clubs, most cardholders will still have lounge privileges based on their travel activity. Card members who spend $75,000 annually will continue to enjoy unlimited access.
Additionally, Delta is making adjustments to its SkyMiles program qualification criteria. In the future, frequent flyer status will be determined based on the amount spent with the airline rather than the number of miles flown.
With these changes, Delta aims to enhance the travel experience for its passengers while also ensuring the sustainability and exclusivity of its Sky Clubs.
Photo: Forsaken Films/Unsplash
