The Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card is a premium travel rewards credit card designed for frequent flyers who are loyal to Delta Air Lines. Offering a variety of benefits, from earning miles on purchases to access to Delta Sky Club lounges, this card is tailored to elevate the travel experience for those who regularly fly with Delta. In this comprehensive guide, we will cover the key features of the card, its benefits, and how you can apply for it.
1. Overview of the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card
The Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card is part of the American Express family of co-branded airline cards with Delta. This card is positioned as a mid-tier rewards card, offering a balance between earning potential, perks, and annual fees. It allows cardholders to earn SkyMiles, which can be redeemed for flights, seat upgrades, vacation packages, and more.
This card also comes with several travel-related benefits, including priority boarding, a free checked bag, and the opportunity to earn Medallion Qualification Miles (MQMs) that can help you achieve or maintain elite status with Delta.
2. Key Benefits of the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card
2.1 Earning SkyMiles
One of the most appealing features of the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card is the ability to earn SkyMiles on every purchase. Here’s how you can earn miles:
- 3 Miles per Dollar: Earn 3 miles on Delta purchases, including flights, baggage fees, and in-flight purchases.
- 2 Miles per Dollar: Earn 2 miles on restaurants and U.S. supermarkets, which are ideal categories for everyday spending.
- 1 Mile per Dollar: Earn 1 mile on all other purchases.
These earning rates allow you to accumulate miles quickly, especially if you frequently shop at restaurants and supermarkets or fly with Delta.
2.2 Welcome Bonus
New cardholders can earn a generous welcome bonus. As of the latest offer, you can earn 50,000 bonus SkyMiles after making $3,000 in purchases within the first three months from account opening. This bonus can go a long way toward booking a flight or upgrading to a higher class of service on Delta flights.
2.3 Medallion Qualification Miles (MQMs)
One of the unique benefits of the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card is the opportunity to earn Medallion Qualification Miles (MQMs), which are required to achieve or maintain Medallion Status with Delta. Medallion Status unlocks a range of exclusive perks, including priority check-in, complimentary upgrades, and even waived fees.
Cardholders can earn 10,000 MQMs after spending $25,000 in a calendar year. Plus, you can earn an additional 10,000 MQMs after spending $50,000 in a calendar year. These MQMs can help you reach your desired Medallion Status level faster, which in turn gives you access to premium travel benefits.
2.4 Delta Sky Club Access
Travelers who often visit Delta Sky Club lounges will appreciate the ability to access them with the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card. Cardholders receive complimentary access to Delta Sky Club lounges when flying on a Delta flight. This benefit provides access to comfortable seating, complimentary snacks and beverages, Wi-Fi, and more – all of which can make waiting for your flight a much more pleasant experience.
2.5 Free Checked Bag
When flying on a Delta-operated flight, cardholders are entitled to a free checked bag for themselves and up to 8 travel companions on the same reservation. This benefit can save you up to $60 per round-trip flight, making it an especially valuable perk for families or groups traveling together.
2.6 Priority Boarding
Cardholders enjoy priority boarding on Delta flights. This means you can board earlier, ensuring you have space for your carry-on and settling into your seat before the crowds arrive.
2.7 No Foreign Transaction Fees
For international travelers, the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card is a great choice, as it doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees. Whether you’re booking flights, paying for meals, or shopping abroad, you can avoid the additional costs typically associated with using a credit card overseas.
2.8 Travel Protection and Insurance
This card also comes with a suite of travel protections, which can be especially useful if your travel plans are disrupted. Some of the key benefits include:
- Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance: Reimbursement for non-refundable expenses if your trip is canceled or interrupted due to covered reasons.
- Car Rental Loss and Damage Insurance: Protection for rental cars in case of damage or theft when you pay for the rental with your card.
- Travel Accident Insurance: Coverage for accidental injury or death while traveling on a common carrier.
These benefits help to provide peace of mind during your travels, knowing that you’re financially protected in case of unforeseen circumstances.
3. Annual Fee and Other Costs
The Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card comes with an annual fee of $250. While this is a relatively high fee, the card’s benefits—such as the free checked bag, priority boarding, and access to Sky Clubs—can easily offset the cost if you travel frequently with Delta.
4. How to Apply for the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card
Applying for the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card is a straightforward process. Here are the steps you need to follow:
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Before applying, make sure you meet the basic eligibility requirements. Typically, American Express requires applicants to have:
- A good to excellent credit score (generally 670 or higher).
- U.S. residency and a valid Social Security number.
- A stable income and a reasonable ability to repay any balances.
Step 2: Visit the Application Page
To apply, you can visit the official American Express website. Look for the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card page, which provides detailed information about the card’s features, benefits, and fees.
Step 3: Fill Out the Application Form
Once you’ve found the application page, click the “Apply Now” button. You will be prompted to fill out an online application form with your personal details, such as:
- Full name, address, and date of birth.
- Social Security number (for credit reporting).
- Employment and income information.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
After completing the application form, review your information for accuracy and submit it. American Express will process your application, typically within a few minutes. In some cases, it may take longer if they need additional documentation or clarification.
Step 5: Wait for Approval
If you’re approved, you will receive your Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card in the mail. Once you activate it, you can begin enjoying the rewards and benefits associated with the card.
5. Conclusion
The Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card is an excellent option for frequent travelers who fly with Delta Air Lines and are looking to earn rewards and enjoy premium perks. With benefits like free checked bags, priority boarding, access to Delta Sky Clubs, and the ability to earn MQMs toward Medallion Status, this card is designed to enhance your travel experience.
The application process is simple, and if you meet the eligibility requirements, you can quickly begin reaping the rewards of this fantastic travel credit card. Whether you’re looking to save on baggage fees or earn miles for your next vacation, the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card is a valuable companion for any frequent flyer.
