Do Delta SkyMiles members get free upgrades?

Do Delta SkyMiles members get free upgrades?

Yes, Delta SkyMiles members have the opportunity to enjoy free upgrades, but it is important to note that these upgrades are not guaranteed. As a member of the Delta SkyMiles program, you can earn Medallion Status by accumulating a certain number of Medallion Qualification Miles (MQMs) or flying a specific number of Medallion Qualification Segments (MQSs) within a calendar year. Once you reach Medallion Status, you become eligible for complimentary upgrades on Delta flights, subject to availability.

The likelihood of receiving a free upgrade depends on various factors, including your Medallion Status tier, fare class, route, and aircraft type. Delta uses a prioritization system called a “Medallion Upgrade Hierarchy” to determine who gets the available upgrades. The hierarchy considers factors such as elite status, fare class, and time of request.

How can I earn Medallion Status?

To earn Medallion Status, you need to accumulate a certain amount of Medallion Qualification Miles (MQMs) or complete a specific number of Medallion Qualification Segments (MQSs) within a calendar year. The requirements to achieve each Medallion Status tier are as follows:

– Silver Medallion: 25,000 MQMs or 30 MQSs
– Gold Medallion: 50,000 MQMs or 60 MQSs
– Platinum Medallion: 75,000 MQMs or 100 MQSs
– Diamond Medallion: 125,000 MQMs or 140 MQSs

MQMs are earned based on distance flown and fare class, while MQSs are earned based on the number of flight segments flown. You can earn MQMs and MQSs by flying with Delta, its partner airlines, or through other eligible activities.

How does the Medallion Upgrade Hierarchy work?

The Medallion Upgrade Hierarchy is a system that determines who gets priority for upgrades when there are more eligible passengers than available seats. Delta uses a combination of factors to determine the order of upgrade requests. The hierarchy considers the following criteria, in order:

1. Delta One® customers
2. Delta Premium Select® customers
3. Diamond, Platinum, and Gold Medallion members
4. Silver Medallion members
5. Main Cabin customers

Within each tier, the order is further determined by fare class and time of request. This means that higher tier members have a better chance of getting an upgrade, followed by lower tier members and Main Cabin customers. It’s important to note that even if you have Medallion Status, you may not always receive an upgrade due to limited availability.

Can I use my SkyMiles to upgrade?

Yes, Delta SkyMiles can be used to upgrade to a higher class of service, but it is subject to availability and certain fare conditions. You can use your SkyMiles to request an upgrade at the time of booking or later through the My Trips section on the Delta website or the Fly Delta app. The number of SkyMiles required for an upgrade varies depending on the route, fare class, and availability.

It’s important to note that using SkyMiles for upgrades is different from the complimentary upgrades offered to Medallion members. While Medallion upgrades are based on eligibility and availability, using SkyMiles for upgrades allows you to secure a higher class of service by redeeming your miles.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can Delta SkyMiles members always get a free upgrade?

No, free upgrades for Delta SkyMiles members are subject to availability and certain eligibility criteria. While Delta strives to provide upgrades to its loyal customers, there may be instances where upgrades are not available due to high demand or other factors.

2. Can I upgrade on all Delta flights?

Upgrades on Delta flights are subject to availability and certain fare conditions. While upgrades may be offered on most flights, there may be exceptions, such as flights with limited premium cabin seating or certain partner flights. It’s best to check with Delta or consult the terms and conditions of the SkyMiles program for specific details.

3. Are Medallion upgrades available on codeshare flights?

Medallion upgrades are available on eligible Delta-operated flights, as well as select partner flights. However, it’s important to note that upgrade eligibility may vary for codeshare flights operated by partner airlines. It’s always best to check with Delta or consult the terms and conditions of the SkyMiles program for specific details on upgrade availability.

4. Can I earn MQMs and MQSs through partner airlines?

Yes, you can earn MQMs and MQSs by flying on eligible flights operated by Delta, Delta Connection®, and select partner airlines. The eligible partner airlines may vary, so it’s important to review the partner airline list on the Delta website or consult the terms and conditions of the SkyMiles program for specific details.

5. What if I don’t have enough MQMs or MQSs to reach the next Medallion Status tier?

If you don’t have enough MQMs or MQSs to reach the next Medallion Status tier, you will remain in your current tier. However, your MQMs and MQSs will roll over to the following year, providing you with a head start towards earning Medallion Status for the next year. Additionally, you can always continue to fly and earn more MQMs or MQSs to achieve a higher Medallion Status tier.

6. Can I request an upgrade for someone else as a Delta SkyMiles member?

Delta SkyMiles members can request upgrades for themselves and one travel companion traveling on the same reservation, as long as they have the necessary Medallion Status and are eligible for the upgrades. Upgrades for additional guests may be available for purchase or through the use of SkyMiles, subject to availability.

7. Can I use my SkyMiles to upgrade a ticket purchased with cash?

Yes, you can use your SkyMiles to upgrade a ticket purchased with cash, subject to availability and certain fare conditions. The number of SkyMiles required for an upgrade will vary depending on the route, fare class, and availability. You can make an upgrade request at the time of booking or later through the My Trips section on the Delta website or the Fly Delta app.

8. Do Delta SkyMiles members receive other benefits besides upgrades?

Yes, Delta SkyMiles members enjoy a range of benefits based on their Medallion Status tier. These benefits may include priority boarding, waived baggage fees, access to Delta Sky Club® lounges, complimentary premium beverages and snacks, and more. The specific benefits you receive will depend on your Medallion Status and the type of ticket you have.

9. How can I check my upgrade eligibility as a Delta SkyMiles member?

As a Delta SkyMiles member, you can check your upgrade eligibility by logging into your SkyMiles account on the Delta website or the Fly Delta app. You can view your Medallion Status, track your MQMs and MQSs, and check the availability of upgrades for your upcoming flights. Delta also sends email notifications to eligible members about upgrade opportunities.

10. Can a non-Medallion member get a free upgrade?

While complimentary upgrades are primarily offered to Medallion members, there may be rare instances where non-Medallion members receive a free upgrade. These upgrades typically occur when the flight is overbooked, and there are more available seats in the higher class of service than eligible Medallion members. However, this is not a guaranteed benefit for non-Medallion members.

11. Can I request an upgrade at the airport?

Yes, you can request an upgrade at the airport, subject to availability and eligibility criteria. However, it’s important to note that requesting an upgrade at the airport may have a lower chance of success compared to making the request in advance. It’s recommended to request upgrades as early as possible to increase your chances of securing one.

12. What happens if I get upgraded but my travel companion doesn’t?

If you are eligible for an upgrade, but your travel companion is not, you will be seated in different cabins of service. However, Delta will make every effort to accommodate seating arrangements that allow you to sit together, depending on the availability and configuration of the aircraft. It’s best to contact Delta or speak with a gate agent for assistance in such situations.