On January 15, Northwest’s WorldPerks will implement a new mileage award chart which, like that of its merger partner Delta, is based on three tiers. “Low” is basically a saver award: Low cost, very low inventory. “Medium” offers many more seats for many more miles. “High” is an anytime award: Pick a seat on any flight, and pay dearly. Currently, the new chart covers only coach class, which is the basis of our first recommendation: Book your premium Northwest awards now before the three-tier plan takes over the whole plane. If your travel plans change you can always redeposit your miles (for a small fee). Other major changes arising from the merger:
• Starting early in 2009 you’ll be able to transfer miles between accounts and receive complimentary upgrades on both airlines.
• Delta’s SkyMiles will allow members to reach elite status by flying a designated number of flight segments on either Delta or Northwest operated flights (currently a WorldPerks benefit). Silver status will require 25,000 qualifying miles or 30 qualifying segments. Gold: 50,000/60. Platinum: 75,000/100. (Both programs will still offer a minimum of 500 elite qualifying miles and base miles per flight.)
• Delta will adopt Northwest’s practice of offering special mileage perks (to be determined) when members surpass Platinum status. The program is called Medallion Threshold Rewards. Threshold levels will be published in early 2009. (Under Northwest’s similar plan, bonuses for Platinum members will now require reaching 75,000 qualifying miles as opposed to the 60,000 required before the merger).
To see Northwest’s new three-tier coach award chart, go to:
http://www.nwa.com/worldperks/redeemmiles/fltawards/usawards/?omni=em.wdan.20081210.MergerUpdate.nwa.com.new.awards