Delta Sky Club Changes: What You Need to Know

Hey there, frequent flyers! If you’re a Delta Air Lines enthusiast or a lounge lover, you’ve likely heard about the recent changes coming to the Delta Sky Club. These changes, set to take effect in the coming months, are aimed at improving the lounge experience for all passengers. Let’s dive into the details and explore what these updates mean for you.

1. Limits on Sky Club Access
One of the most significant changes is the introduction of limits on Sky Club access. Starting on February 1, 2025, Delta will implement visit limits for passengers holding certain credit cards. Here’s the breakdown:

• The Platinum Card® from American Express: Six annual visits.
• The Business Platinum Card® from American Express: Six annual visits.
• Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card: Ten annual visits (with two annual guest passes).
• Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card: Ten annual visits.

These visit limits are based on the program year, which runs from February 1 through January 31 of the following year. However, it’s worth noting that there are no changes to Sky Club access for Centurion Cardholders (the “black” card).

How to Get Around the Change
If you’re looking to enjoy unlimited Sky Club access, there’s a way to bypass these limits: spending. Specifically, if you spend $75,000 or more during a calendar year (from January 1 through December 31) on one of the eligible credit cards mentioned above, you’ll gain unlimited Sky Club access for the remainder of the year in which you hit the spending threshold and through January 31 of the following year. Keep in mind that if you have multiple versions of the same credit card, visit allotments are cumulative. Additionally, authorized Amex Platinum card users will receive their own six annual visit allotments before hitting the $75,000 spend threshold.

2. Farewell to Delta’s Platinum Cardmembers
Historically, Delta’s mid-tier Platinum credit cardholders enjoyed the perk of paying for Sky Club access at a per-visit rate of $50 per person for themselves and up to two travel companions. However, starting on January 1, 2024, this perk will no longer be available. Holders of the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card and the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Business American Express Card will lose their access to the Sky Club.

3. Basic Economy Fare Restrictions
Previously, basic economy passengers could access the Sky Club if they were Amex cardmembers. However, effective January 1, 2024, passengers booked on basic economy tickets (or an equivalent fare with partner airlines) will no longer have Sky Club access. This change also applies to Amex cardholders with basic economy tickets.

You might be tempted to switch to a different airline right now, but in the grand scheme of things, even if some other airlines boast slightly more enticing frequent flyer programs compared to Delta’s adopted frequent flyer “buyer” approach, it doesn’t necessarily make them the superior choice. Delta has built a reputation for its outstanding in-flight experiences and punctual arrivals, aspects that hold significant value for most travelers. Rather than hastily changing allegiances, it’s worth exploring options like status matching with alternative programs such as American Airlines or United.

These changes reflect Delta’s efforts to manage and enhance the Sky Club experience for all guests. While they may present challenges for some travelers, they also pave the way for a more comfortable and enjoyable lounge environment. As with any transition, it’s essential to stay informed and adapt your travel plans accordingly.

We’ll keep you updated on any further developments, so you can continue to make the most of your Delta Sky Club experience. Safe travels! ✈️

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