How hard is it to get Delta Silver Medallion?

How hard is it to get Delta Silver Medallion?

Getting Delta Silver Medallion status can be a challenging but rewarding process. To achieve this coveted status, one must accumulate a specific number of Medallion Qualification Miles (MQMs) or Medallion Qualification Segments (MQSs) and meet a minimum spending requirement. While the exact requirements may vary from year to year, let’s take a look at the general criteria and steps involved in earning Delta Silver Medallion status.

What are the requirements for Delta Silver Medallion status?

To qualify for Delta Silver Medallion status, you need to earn either 25,000 MQMs or fly 30 MQSs while spending at least $3,000 with Delta or eligible partners within a calendar year. MQMs are based on the distance flown and fare class, while MQSs are earned based on the number of flight segments. Additionally, Delta offers a waiver for the spending requirement if you spend $25,000 or more on a Delta SkyMiles American Express Card within a calendar year.

How can I earn MQMs and MQSs?

MQMs can be earned by flying on eligible Delta-operated flights as well as certain partner airlines. The number of MQMs earned is based on the distance traveled and the fare class of the ticket. MQSs, on the other hand, are earned based on the number of segments flown, regardless of the distance. These segments must be on eligible Delta or partner-operated flights.

Do flights on partner airlines count towards Medallion status?

Yes, flights on eligible partner airlines can contribute towards your Medallion status. Delta has partnerships with several airlines, including SkyTeam alliance members and other non-alliance partners. However, it’s important to check the specific fare classes that are eligible for earning MQMs and MQSs on each partner airline, as they may vary.

Can I earn Medallion status with credit card spending alone?

No, it is not possible to achieve Medallion status solely through credit card spending. While having a Delta SkyMiles American Express Card can help you earn additional MQMs through spending, you still need to meet the MQM or MQS requirements and spending threshold by flying on eligible Delta or partner-operated flights.

How long does Delta Silver Medallion status last?

Once you achieve Delta Silver Medallion status, it is valid for the remainder of the current calendar year, as well as the following calendar year. For example, if you earn Silver Medallion status in June 2022, it will be valid until December 31, 2023.

What are the benefits of Delta Silver Medallion status?

Delta Silver Medallion status comes with a range of benefits, including complimentary upgrades to First Class or Delta Comfort+ based on availability, priority boarding, waived baggage fees, priority security screening, and access to preferred seating. Additionally, Silver Medallion members earn a higher mileage bonus on eligible flights and enjoy better customer service support.

Is it worth pursuing Delta Silver Medallion status?

The value of pursuing Delta Silver Medallion status depends on your travel patterns and preferences. If you frequently fly with Delta or its partner airlines and value the enhanced travel experience, including upgrades and priority boarding, then achieving Silver Medallion status can be highly beneficial. It’s important to weigh the benefits against the effort and financial investment required.

Can I earn Medallion status faster with higher-tier credit cards?

Yes, Delta offers higher-tier credit cards, such as the Delta SkyMiles Platinum or Reserve American Express Card, which allow you to earn additional MQMs through spending. These cards can help you reach your Medallion status goals faster by combining your flight activity and credit card spending.

What happens if I don’t meet the requirements for Medallion status?

If you don’t meet the requirements for Medallion status, you will retain your current Medallion status for the remainder of the current calendar year. However, once the new calendar year starts, you will be evaluated based on your activity for that year. If you don’t meet the requirements again, you may be demoted to a lower Medallion tier or lose your status altogether.

Can I earn Medallion status faster through travel with Delta’s partners?

Yes, travel on eligible partner airlines can help you earn MQMs and MQSs towards your Medallion status. This can be particularly beneficial if you frequently travel on partner airlines that offer more favorable earning rates or if you’re part of a corporate travel program that includes flights on partner airlines.

Can I achieve Delta Silver Medallion status in a single trip?

While it is technically possible to achieve Delta Silver Medallion status in a single trip, it is highly unlikely due to the minimum spending requirement. Even if you were to fly 25,000 MQMs or 30 MQSs on a single trip, you would still need to meet the spending threshold to qualify for Medallion status.

Can I earn more than one Medallion status in a year?

No, you can only earn one Medallion status per calendar year. Once you achieve a certain Medallion tier, such as Silver, Gold, Platinum, or Diamond, you cannot earn another tier within the same year. However, you can strive to maintain and potentially advance to a higher tier for the following year.

Can I gift or transfer my Medallion status to someone else?

No, Medallion status is non-transferable and can only be earned and utilized by the individual account holder. It cannot be gifted, transferred, or shared with others.

How can I track my progress towards Medallion status?

Delta provides a dedicated section on their website and mobile app where you can track your progress towards Medallion status. This includes a breakdown of your MQM, MQS, and spending activity for the current calendar year. Additionally, you can access this information through your SkyMiles account or by contacting Delta’s customer service.

What happens if I achieve Medallion status mid-year?

If you achieve Medallion status mid-year, you will receive the benefits and perks associated with that status for the remainder of the current calendar year. For the following calendar year, your status will be based on the requirements and activities during that year.

Can Medallion status be extended if I don’t qualify in a given year?

Delta offers a Medallion Status Match Challenge program, where you can request a status match based on your elite status with another airline. This program allows you the opportunity to enjoy Medallion benefits while working towards the required activity levels to maintain or requalify for your status.

In conclusion, Delta Silver Medallion status requires meeting specific requirements in terms of MQMs, MQSs, and spending. By flying on eligible Delta or partner-operated flights, using Delta SkyMiles American Express Cards, and strategizing your travel patterns, you can aim to achieve this prestigious status. Remember to track your progress regularly and consider the benefits against your travel preferences to determine if it’s worth the effort.