Do I have to fly to earn MQMs?

Do I have to fly to earn MQMs?

Yes, in order to earn Medallion Qualification Miles (MQMs), you do need to fly. MQMs are a type of miles that Delta Air Lines uses to determine your Medallion status within its frequent flyer program. These miles are earned based on the distance flown and the fare class of your ticket.

When you fly with Delta or its eligible partners, you earn MQMs that count towards your Medallion qualifications. The number of MQMs you earn depends on the distance of your flight and the fare class you booked. For example, when you fly in an economy class, you may earn a certain number of MQMs, while flying in a business or first class may earn you more MQMs.

FAQs about earning MQMs:

1. Can I earn MQMs on all flights?

Yes, you can earn MQMs on most flights operated by Delta and its eligible partner airlines. However, there may be certain fares or flights that are not eligible for earning MQMs. It’s always best to check with the airline before booking your flight to ensure you will earn MQMs for that particular trip.

2. How do I know how many MQMs I will earn for a flight?

The number of MQMs you will earn for a flight depends on the distance traveled and the fare class of your ticket. Delta provides a detailed breakdown of MQM earning rates on their website, so you can easily calculate the approximate number of MQMs you will earn for a specific flight.

3. Can I earn MQMs on codeshare flights?

Yes, you can earn MQMs on codeshare flights operated by Delta and its partner airlines. However, it’s important to note that the MQMs you earn may vary depending on the fare class and operating carrier of the flight. Always check the earning rules for codeshare flights before booking.

4. Are there any other ways to earn MQMs besides flying?

While flying is the main way to earn MQMs, there are a few other ways to accumulate them. Delta offers co-branded credit cards that allow you to earn MQMs with your everyday purchases. Additionally, there may be limited-time promotions or partnerships that offer bonus MQMs for specific actions or activities.

5. Can I transfer MQMs to another person?

No, MQMs are non-transferable. They are only applicable to the account holder and cannot be gifted or transferred to another person.

6. What happens to my MQMs at the end of the year?

At the end of each calendar year, any MQMs earned that year will reset to zero. However, if you have earned enough MQMs to qualify for a particular Medallion status, you will retain that status for the following year. Any excess MQMs beyond the required threshold will roll over and contribute towards the next year’s qualification.

7. Do MQMs expire?

MQMs do not expire as long as you maintain your Medallion status. However, if you do not earn enough MQMs to qualify for a Medallion status, any unused MQMs will expire at the end of the calendar year.

8. Can I earn MQMs on award flights?

No, award flights are not eligible for earning MQMs. MQMs are only earned on flights where you purchase a ticket or use a SkyMiles upgrade certificate.

9. Can I earn MQMs on discounted or promotional fares?

Yes, you can earn MQMs on discounted or promotional fares. However, the number of MQMs earned may be reduced compared to standard fares. It’s important to check the fare class and earning rates for the specific fare you are considering to understand the number of MQMs you will earn.

10. Can I earn MQMs on international flights?

Yes, you can earn MQMs on international flights operated by Delta and its partner airlines. The distance flown and fare class of your ticket will determine the number of MQMs earned, just like on domestic flights.

11. Do I need to be a Delta SkyMiles member to earn MQMs?

Yes, you need to be a member of Delta’s frequent flyer program, SkyMiles, to earn MQMs. Membership is free, and you can easily sign up on the Delta website to start earning and tracking your MQMs.

12. Can I earn MQMs on flights booked through third-party travel agencies?

Yes, you can earn MQMs on flights booked through third-party travel agencies as long as your ticket is eligible for earning MQMs. However, it’s always a good idea to double-check with the travel agency or Delta to ensure that your ticket will indeed earn MQMs.

Remember, flying is the primary way to earn MQMs, and the more MQMs you earn within a calendar year, the higher your Medallion status will be. So, get ready to take off, and start earning those valuable MQMs towards your Medallion status with Delta!