It feels like, more often than not, these days that we see negative changes to airline and hotel loyalty benefits. Thankfully, that isn’t always the case. Earlier this week, Delta revealed changes to its Medallion program which included refreshed Choice Benefits options.
Changes to Delta Medallion Choice Benefits
With the end of the year fast approaching, Delta frequent flyers are looking to 2026 and beyond. Fortunately for them, they should like what they see.
Beginning February 1, 2026, Delta Platinum and Diamond Medallion members will gain access to refreshed Choice Benefits. With the exception of the American Express statement credit, which will be $250 annually for Platinum and $500 for Diamond Medallion members, the changes all involve increases in benefits for passengers.
Platinum Medallion members can expect the following:
- The ability to gift Silver Medallion status to four family and friends (Up from two)
- 35,000 bonus miles (up from 30,000)
- A Delta Travel Voucher increase from $300 to $350
Diamond Medallion members can expect the following:
- The ability to gift Gold Medallion status to four family and friends (Up from two)
- 40,000 bonus miles (up from 35,000)
- A Delta Travel Voucher increase from $350 to $550
Dwight James, Senior Vice President of Customer Engagement and Loyalty, along with the title of CEO of Delta Vacations, said this about the changes:
“The SkyMiles program is built on a foundation of listening to our Members and evolving to meet their needs. The latest Choice Benefits updates reflect Member feedback and our commitment to delivering an experience that rewards loyalty in a variety of ways. Earning and keeping the trust of our Members means being transparent about changes and continually investing in the experiences that matter most.”
Delta Won’t Increase Medallion Earning Requirements for 2026
While the Choice Benefits changes are getting the bulk of the news, its important to note that Delta will not be changing the earnings thresholds for its Delta Sky Miles program. SkyMiles members can continue to earn towards elite status for 2027 at the same rates.
If you’re on the cusp of the next Medallion tier, Delta is bringing back its “Elevate Your Status” promotion in an effort to get passengers over the hump for 2026. Through December 31, eligible U.S.-based SkyMiles and Medallion Members can make a one-time MQD purchase to reach the next Medallion tier for 2026.
My Thoughts
While it is great to see an airline adding benefits for elite passengers, Delta’s SkyMiles program is still one of the weakest among the major U.S. based carriers. These new benefits, especially the increase in status gifting, is likely better for friends and family of Platinum and Diamond members as opposed to the member itself
Thankfully, after years of increases, we aren’t seeing MQD changes for status requalification in 2027. One has to wonder if this is due to a continued slump in business travel demand. While I was extremely airline loyal prior to the pandemic, I’ve found myself increasingly flying what works best for my schedule and wallet as opposed to chasing what seem like ever increasing earnings thresholds. At least for Delta I get a reprieve next year.
Summary
Delta has released its SkyMiles earning requirements for next year and, fortunately, things are staying the same. The Atlanta based carrier has also made some positive changes to its Choice Benefits for Platinum and Diamond Medallion members.