Overview

• Delta originally announced spending-based changes to SkyMiles program in mid-September, shifting focus from flights to dollars spent.
• Higher requirements for elite status levels and restricted airport lounge access sparked customer complaints.
• In response, Delta lowered thresholds for status, allowed more lounge visits for some, and introduced new lifetime elite benefits.
• Spending remains primary metric for status qualification starting in 2025, but requirements increased less than originally proposed.
• Revisions attempt to address customer concerns, but core changes moving loyalty program to be spending-focused remain.