Delta’s Elite Status Match Program Is Back — Here’s How You Can Apply

09.02.2024 - 10:11 / travelandleisure.com / Airlines

Delta’s latest status match applications are live for the 2024 year, giving travelers the chance to get free upgrades, checked bags, and many more benefits through its Medallion program.

“The Medallion Status Match Challenge is a program designed to give you the opportunity to switch your airline loyalty to Delta,” the airline shared on its website. 

Travelers who have elite status on a different airline can now apply to get three free months of Delta Medallion status benefits. Then, upon completing qualifying flight activities during that promotional window, travelers can keep their newly minted Delta status until 2026. 

Delta’s status comparison chart shows which airlines are eligible and their equivalent level in the Medallion program. Domestic airlines including Alaska, American, JetBlue, Southwest, and United all qualify, while there are some international programs included in the offer, too.

While there are four status levels (Silver, Gold, Platinum, and Diamond), travelers will only be able to match their current status up to the Platinum Medallion level. 

Only SkyMiles members who have been enrolled in the program for at least 30 days can apply for the offer. In addition, those who have previously applied for a Delta status match in the past three years are ineligible.

To apply, travelers will need to fill out the form detailing their contact information, status on another airline, and any supporting documentation, such as a physical or digital membership card.  

During the three-month trial period, SkyMiles members could potentially get their elite status extended through January 31, 2026, by earning the required Medallion Qualification Dollars (MQDs): 

It’s unclear how long it takes for Delta to approve applications, but the airline says the three-month complimentary period will begin 24 hours after receiving the confirmation email.

Late last year, Delta changed up its elite status program by making MQDs the sole qualification metric. Put simply, travelers can earn 1 MQD per $1 spent on the airline, though eligible Delta cardholders can earn MQDs from credit card spending as well.

Delta isn’t the only airline to offer a status match program, which is open for a new slate of applicants every new year. Major legacy airlines American Airlines and United Airlines offer similar status match programs with the hopes of swaying customers to fly with them instead. 

There’s a reason elite status is so popular, as the benefits can be quite beneficial for frequent flyers. With Delta’s program, all Medallion members are eligible for space-available upgrades to first class, priority boarding, and access to a dedicated phone line.