by Donald Wood
Last updated: 9:20 AM ET, Thu September 14, 2023
Delta Air Lines announced plans to limit the number of
travelers who would be permitted to enter its airport Sky Clubs, starting on
February 1, 2025.
According to The
Associated Press, the entry limits will apply to holders of the American
Express Platinum Card (allowed six Sky Club visits per year) and the Delta
Reserve American Express Card (permitted 10 annual visits)
Travelers who book basic economy fares with Delta—even if
they use a Platinum or other premium credit card—will no longer be permitted
inside the carrier’s Sky Clubs, beginning on January 1, 2024.
While there are concerns that some travelers will change credit
cards once the access to the lounges is restricted, American Express said the free
Sky Clubs access has been one of the card’s “biggest selling features.”
American Express also revealed that customers who spend
$75,000 on their card annually would still be rewarded with unlimited access to
lounges, which have been experiencing long lines across the United States.
In another blow to Delta passengers, the airline also
revealed changes to the SkyMiles program, which makes it harder to qualify for
status by allowing only Medallion Qualification Dollars to serve as the qualifier
for Medallion Status.
Travelers will no longer earn status based on the number of
miles they fly with the airline, and instead earn status based on the amount of
money they spend with the airline. Delta posted a full breakdown of the recent SkyMiles
Program changes on its official website.
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