As a Centennial year for the books begins to wind down, Delta Air Lines’ SkyMiles members are making their final moves to secure 2026 Medallion Status before December 31. From refreshed Choice Benefits to the return of Elevate Your Status and everyday ways to earn beyond the flight, SkyMiles is giving members more flexibility, more value and more ways to personalize their loyalty experience. With Medallion Qualification Dollars (MQD) thresholds to qualify for 2027 Medallion Status staying the same, members can earn toward elite status with no added requirements. Here’s what to know as you plan your final flights, vacations and purchases of 2025.
Updates to Choice Benefits
Diamond and Platinum Medallion members enjoy access to exclusive Choice Benefits—customizable options designed to reflect what matters most to each of Delta’s most loyal members. Beginning February 1, 2026, members will see the following changes to 2026 Choice Benefits options:
For members who select Choice Benefits at the lower value prior to February 1, 2026, Delta will deposit the difference by mid-February 2026. For those who select Choice Benefits at the higher statement credit values prior to their decrease on February 1, 2026, no adjustments will be made, and they will receive the higher statement credit value. All other exclusive Choice Benefits options remain unchanged.
Whether members are aiming to reach Medallion Status for the first time, leveling up to the next tier or making a comeback, there’s still time to make it happen before December 31. Here are a few smart ways to make the most of the final stretch: fly with Delta and partner airlines; use Delta SkyMiles American Express Card; and book a Delta Vacations package.
Return of Elevate Your Status
Elevate Your Status is back by popular demand, giving members more flexibility and control over how to secure their 2026 Medallion Status. Through December 31, eligible U.S.-based SkyMiles and Medallion Members can make a one-time MQD purchase to reach the next Medallion tier for 2026.
The limited-time program returns with a meaningful update: 100 percent of proceeds (excluding processing fees) will go directly toward funding sustainable aviation fuel (SAF)—a certified alternative jet fuel that can reduce lifecycle carbon emissions by up to 80 percent compared to conventional jet fuel.
No change to MQD thresholds for 2027 Status
In case you missed it, MQD thresholds to qualify for 2027 Medallion Status are staying the same—so members can look forward to earning toward Diamond, Platinum, Gold and Silver Medallion Status without any added requirements next year.
Need a Status check? The app makes it easy to stay on top of your SkyMiles journey as your go-to tool for tracking MQDs and progress toward achieving the next Medallion Tier.
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