Earning Delta Status Becoming More Difficult


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Delta is unfortunately upping their requirements to earn status for 2016 (which you earn in 2015). With Delta, unlike some of the other airlines, you need to spend a certain dollar amount on Delta flights (called Medallion Qualification Dollars) to obtain the desired status IN ADDITION to flying the required number of miles or segments.

While the number of miles and segments have stayed the same to reach all four status levels, the Medallion Qualification Dollar (MDQ) amount has increased.

Current qualification requirements

Delta Medallion Qualification Levels

 

Next years qualification requirements

Delta Medallion Qualification Levels

 

Recap of the changes:

  • Silver status: MQDs increasing from $2,500 to $3,000 ($500 increase)
  • Gold status: MQDs increasing from $5,000 to $6,000 ($1,000 increase)
  • Platinum status: MQDs increasing from $7,500 to $9,000 ($1,500 increase)
  • Diamond status: MQDs increasing from $12,500 to $15,000 ($2,500 increase)

This is a pretty significant increase at each status level. Fortunately, this requirement is slightly different if you have the Delta SkyMiles credit card and put the minimum required spend on it during the calendar year. This is a high spend, but could be worth it if you are going to hit the desired status level but shy on the MQD requirement.

Thanks to MJ on Travel and The Points Guy for announcing this official change. 

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matt_in_atl
matt_in_atl
10 years ago

It’s Delta. What do you expect?

For all I care, they might just as well dissolve their loyalty program. Because loyalty goes both ways. And they sure ain’t showing any.

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