How do I get gold status on Delta?
Delta Air Lines offers a tiered loyalty program called SkyMiles, which provides frequent flyers with various benefits, including elite status. One of the elite status levels in the SkyMiles program is Gold Medallion. Achieving Gold status on Delta requires meeting certain criteria, including frequent travel and earning a specific number of Medallion Qualification Miles (MQMs) or Medallion Qualification Segments (MQSs) within a calendar year.
To obtain Gold status on Delta, you need to reach either 50,000 MQMs or 60 MQSs in a calendar year. MQMs are based on the distance flown and the fare class purchased, while MQSs are based on segments (takeoffs and landings) flown. It’s important to note that only flights operated by Delta, Delta Connection, or Delta Shuttle count towards these requirements.
Once you have achieved Gold status, you can enjoy a variety of benefits, including priority check-in, expedited security screening, priority boarding, access to Delta Sky Clubs, complimentary upgrades (subject to availability), and enhanced customer service support. Gold Medallion members also earn additional mileage bonuses and are eligible for higher upgrade priority compared to non-elite passengers.
Frequently Asked Questions about getting Gold status on Delta:
1.
How long does Gold status last?
Gold Medallion status is valid for one calendar year, starting from the date you achieve the status. For example, if you qualify for Gold status in July, it will be valid until December 31 of the following year.
2.
Can I qualify for Gold status with MQDs?
No, Gold status cannot be attained solely by meeting the Medallion Qualification Dollar (MQD) requirement. You need to earn the required number of MQMs or MQSs in addition to meeting the MQD threshold.
3.
What are the benefits of Gold status?
Gold Medallion members enjoy benefits such as priority check-in, expedited security screening, priority boarding, access to Delta Sky Clubs, complimentary upgrades, and enhanced customer service support. These perks enhance the overall travel experience.
4.
Can I earn MQMs on partner airlines?
Yes, you can earn MQMs on eligible flights operated by Delta’s SkyTeam partners. Make sure to provide your SkyMiles number when making reservations and boarding those flights.
5.
Do rollover MQMs count towards qualifying for Gold status?
Rollover MQMs, which are any MQMs earned above the qualification threshold for a certain Medallion status, do count towards qualifying for Gold status. They accumulate and can be applied towards the next membership year.
6.
What happens if I don’t meet the qualifications for Gold status?
If you fall short of the required MQMs or MQSs for Gold status, you will retain your current status or move to a lower tier, depending on your qualification metrics. Delta also offers programs like Status Challenges, which allow you to earn status faster if you’re close to reaching the requirements.
7.
Can I earn MQMs through credit card spending?
Yes, Delta offers co-branded credit cards that allow you to earn MQMs for meeting spending thresholds. This can help you reach the required MQM count for Gold status faster.
8.
Are there any limitations on using Gold status benefits?
While Gold Medallion members receive various benefits, there may be some limitations based on factors such as aircraft type, route, availability, and operational constraints. Delta strives to provide the best experience possible but cannot guarantee every benefit on every flight.
9.
Can I gift Gold status to someone else?
Delta does not offer a formal program to gift or transfer Gold status to another individual. However, certain elite members may have the ability to gift or nominate someone for a lower status tier through Delta’s Choice Benefits program.
10.
What if I achieve Gold status later in the year?
If you earn Gold status after the start of the calendar year, the benefits and privileges associated with that status will be effective immediately upon qualification and will remain valid until December 31 of the following year.
11.
Can I use Gold status benefits when flying with partner airlines?
While some benefits may extend to partner airlines, such as priority boarding or check-in, specific benefits like complimentary upgrades may only apply when flying with Delta or Delta Connection flights. It’s best to check the applicable terms and conditions for each benefit.
12.
Are there any additional ways to earn MQMs?
Aside from flying, Delta offers opportunities to earn bonus MQMs through promotions, selected flights, and partnerships. These bonuses can help you accumulate the necessary MQMs to reach Gold status faster.
By understanding the requirements and benefits of Gold status on Delta, you can work towards achieving this elite level and enjoy the enhanced privileges and perks it offers. Happy travels!
