Delta SkyMiles has been more focused than just about any airline on making their frequent flyer program revenue based, on both the earning and redemption side. They were the first of the big three US airlines to introduce revenue based mileage earning, and they’re also the only airline to let those with their co-branded credit…
Continue reading: You Can Now Redeem Delta SkyMiles To Pay For Fees & More Types Of Upgrades
Share your questions, experiences, and thoughts below.
Agree with the sentiment that "at least there's a floor."
However Delta has shown remarkable creativity and persistence at devaluing its miles. Maybe they settle at $0.01 for a little while... but do you really think it's going to stop there?
If you have a Delta co-branded Amex card you've essentially been accomplish the upgrade part using the "pay with miles" option. I've done it a number of times to "upgrade" to First when the difference between coach & first fares made it seem worth the miles eg 20-40k depending on the route. Using this strategy has the benefit of earning 150% Medallion Qualification Miles for a "paid" but discounted First class ticket. And you can pay with miles without ever picking up the phone.
With Delta, you may have devalued miles for award tickets .... but at least you have award tickets, unlike American. And United simply isn't a good option for me for routine travel out of Seattle.