An American Express-Delta Partnership Makes It Effortless
Delta and Amex Rewards are offering anyone a free entry-level (Silver) elite status for 2011. All you have to do to get it is transfer 50,000 American Express Membership Rewards points to Delta’s mileage program. In addition to receiving 25,000 elite qualifying miles, enough to get Silver status, you also get a 50% transfer bonus, which brings the net to 75,000 redeemable miles. If you already have elite status with Delta, the deal allows you to move up a rung.
What does Silver elite status perks get you?
- Unlimited free domestic upgrades (excluding Hawaii) as well as the same to international destinations including Bermuda, Canada, Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Mexico. Granted, upgrades for bottom-tier elites are a long shot, but they do happen.
- Preferred economy seating; waived baggage fees; and priority check-in and boarding.
- Free companion upgrades and a 25% mileage bonus.
What do Gold elites get that Silver’s do not? Most important is the extension of the upgrade clearing window from one to three days, which vastly increases your odds at getting free elite upgrade confirmations. You also get to upgrade domestic economy award tickets.
What do Platinum elites get that Gold’s do not? The clearing window takes another jump—to five days out. You also get to choose one extra benefit from a menu we’d advise going for the four system wide upgrades, which are valid on partners Air France and KLM.
Fine Print: Registration required and points must be transferred by Dec. 15.
Major Elite Benefits
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