Delta just made a power move that makes having a Delta American Express Card more valuable today than it was yesterday. For cardholders, it’s a “lose nothing, gain a great discount” day.
Delta and itsSkyMiles program has gained major love for its travel perks within the actual flying experience, but of late, the SkyMiles currency hasn’t always been a part of that love. Some unflattering terms such as “SkyPesos” have been coined to reflect what often felt like exorbitant pricing using points, compared to other airlines.
Despite this, the SkyMiles program has continues to grow and Delta remains one of the most loved airlines — so make of that what you will. Now, with the introduction of a new 15% discount on SkyMiles prices for Delta Amex cardmembers, there’s no sign of that changing any time soon.
Miles are more valuable and loyalty has its perks. It’s a major win for cardmembers, without a doubt.
Delta’s New 15% SkyMiles Discount
Effective immediately — and permanently, those who hold a Delta SkyMiles American Express Gold, Platinum or Reserve co-branded credit card will receive a 15% discount on the price in SkyMiles when they redeem for award travel.
Basically, if Delta wants 140,000 SkyMiles one way for a business class flight to Europe, Delta Amex cardmembers holding one of these co-branded credit cards will enjoy 15% off the points price.
That price may still be significantly higher than what other points programs charge for comparable flights, but that’s another story for another day. Delta and SkyMiles just launched limited time card offers with bonuses upward of 90,000 SkyMiles to celebrate the news.
Delta Discount On Award Travel: How It Works
The new “Takeoff 15” benefit from American Express and Delta kicks in automatically. Anyone with a Delta Skymiles Amex Gold, Platinum or Reserve Card searching in the Fly Delta App, or on Delta.com will see the benefit and discount reflected in the pricing automatically.
One key piece to note is that the discount does not apply to any partner flights, such as those on Virgin Atlantic, Air France or KLM, nor does the discount apply to thinks like taxes, fees or surcharges. Just the points price in SkyMiles, but that’s still great.
Delta Pushes Loyalty For Discounts
Delta has been aggressive with SkyMiles prices in recent years to say the least. Now, it’s offering a way out for those willing to show loyalty. It all makes plenty of business sense.
Elite loyalty program members and co-branded cardholders make up a significant share of airline profits, and increasing stickiness with these customers by offering an exclusive discount is a brilliant way to do so.
If you want the most out of your airline miles these days, expect to pledge some loyalty to get there, either with your spending or your flying.
