The Delta SkyMiles program is one of the most well-known rewards programs out there, and the fact that the program has teamed up with American Express to offer a faster way to earn points is one of the selling points. The Gold Delta SkyMiles credit card from American Express works with the SkyMiles program, allowing you to redeem your points for airfare.
Accumulating Delta SkyMiles
One of the great features of the Delta SkyMiles program is that it is easy to earn points. You can earn Delta SkyMiles points when you fly on Delta, as well as on partner airlines Alaska Airlines, Continential and NWA. There are also foreign airline partners that allow you to earn rewards. When you use your American Express card to make purchases, you can also earn extra points toward free flights.
It is worth noting that Delta SkyMiles also works with Visa and Diner’s Club, allowing you to earn points if you decide that an American Express credit card (with its annual fee and immediate interest on transactions) isn’t for you.
Redeeming Delta SkyMiles
The biggest downside to redeeming rewards through the Delta SkyMiles program is that you need to have an almost absurdly high number of points to get a free ticket. While the program insists that you only need 25,000 points to receive a free airline ticket, it’s important to realize that those are for the cheapest flights. In many cases, you will need closer to 35,000 or even 50,000 points for a free flight.
Realize, too, that the seats available for redemption are limited. Flexible travel plans are required for most people using the Delta SkyMiles program. It can also be difficult to upgrade your seat, due to limitations, and only “Medallion” members can use their points to shop for merchandise. You will also pay a fuel surcharge when you book, and trip fees – not covered by your miles – are charged if you don’t book at least 21 days in advance.
You can purchase more miles to increase what is available to you, but by the time you pay the transaction fee, on top of the per-mile cost, you might actually be better off purchasing a ticket.
Bottom Line
Delta SkyMiles can be a good rewards program if you are a frequent flyer, and if you use a credit card to rack up the points faster. As long as you book well in advance, and have some flexibility with your dates, you can usually redeem your points for free travel. However, be prepared for the sticker shock of the necessity of tens of thousands of points to receive your free ticket.
