Delta Air Lines is tweaking its 2026 Choice Benefits and for top-tier SkyMiles frequent flyers. Some will find this a net upgrade, though there is one notable cutback when it comes to American Express credit.

Delta “Enhances” 2026 Choice Benefits, Keeps Medallion Requirements Steady

Let’s look at the Choice Benefits changes first, then we’ll talk about Medallion Qualification Dollar (MQD) for next year.

Choice Benefits: More Value (With One Notable Cut)

Delta says it is increasing the value of several high-engagement Choice Benefits, including gifting status, bonus miles, and travel vouchers, while the American Express statement credit option will decrease in value.

In practical terms, that means if you like to share your status, stockpile miles, or lock in future travel through vouchers, your selections in those categories will now go a bit further than before. On the other hand, those who favored the American Express statement credit will see that particular option become less compelling.

For example:

• The bonus-mile option now pays out more miles than before for both Platinum and Diamond members.
• Travel vouchers also increase in value, giving more flexibility in how members redeem.
• Gifting status becomes more generous, allowing members to share Medallion privileges with more friends or family.

However, the AMEX Statement Credit benefit, a very popular pick, will be reduced:

• Platinum members can choose an AMEX statement credit worth $250 (down from $400)
• Diamond members can choose an AMEX statement credit worth $500 (down from $700)

If you have already selected your 2026 Choice Benefits, Delta indicates the new values will apply automatically, so there is nothing extra you need to do to take advantage of the richer options.

MQD Thresholds Unchanged And “Elevate Your Status” Returns

Delta also confirmed that Medallion Qualification Dollar (MQD) thresholds to qualify for 2027 Medallion Status will remain the same as for 2026. In other words, there are no added spending requirements on the status side. Members can continue earning toward elite status under the existing structure without facing higher MQD targets.

For flyers who plan their year around hitting a particular tier, that stability is welcome. After several years of adjustments across the industry, a steady qualification chart makes it easier to map out how much flying or spending will be required to requalify.

Additionally, the “Elevate Your Status” program is returning. This option allows eligible SkyMiles members in the U.S. to buy the remaining MQDs they need to reach the next Medallion tier. Delta links this program to sustainable aviation fuel funding, so proceeds (less fees) support its environmental initiatives while giving members a safety net if they fall just short of a threshold…that said, this is really something I would never spend money on.

I’ll address the folly of frequent flyer status in a future post (bah humbug indeed…).

CONCLUSION

Delta’s 2026 updates to Choice Benefits and Medallion qualification are a mixed bag for SkyMiles members. By increasing the value of popular benefits like gifting status, bonus miles, and travel vouchers, trimming back the statement credit, holding MQD thresholds steady, and bringing back Elevate Your Status, Delta is at least making modest changes rahter than a further overhaul that greatly diminishes the value of the program. For Medallion members, it is worth taking a fresh look at which Choice Benefits now offer the best return and how these tools can help secure or improve status for 2027.

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