Airlines

Delta’s SkyMiles Soar Higher: Discover What’s New in Loyalty Benefits

Delta announced various SkyMiles Programme modifications on Wednesday, altering some of the changes made in September and introducing many new incentives.

More Accessible Medallion Status Requirements

To make the requirements for achieving 2025 Medallion Status more accessible, Delta has reduced the number of Medallion Qualification Dollars (MQDs) for each tier:

Diamond Medallion Status: $28,000 MQDs (down from $35,000)
Platinum Medallion Status: $15,000 MQDs (down from $18,000)
Gold Medallion Status: $10,000 MQDs (down from $12,000)
Silver Medallion Status: $5,000 MQDs (down from $6,000)

An additional $2,500 MQD Headstart will be given to members who have American Express Delta SkyMiles Reserve, Reserve Business, Platinum, and Platinum Business cards during the current Medallion Qualification Year.

When using the Delta SkyMiles Platinum, Platinum Business, Reserve, and Reserve Business American Express Cards, as well as when booking flights on Delta, customers can accrue Master QDs. When renting a car or a hotel or a vacation home through Delta Car Rentals and Delta Stays, MQDs will not be applied toward Medallion Status.

Greater Flexibility for Delta Sky Club Access

Access to Clubs will no longer be available to holders of American Express Platinum and Platinum SkyMiles cards, as well as Basic Economy passengers, starting on January 1, 2024, regardless of card type.

In addition, Delta is going to offer Club entry for $50 per person each visit once allowed Club visits have been used up for Delta SkyMiles Reserve and Reserve Business Card Members, as well as Card Members with the American Express Platinum Card®. A $695 yearly individual Delta Sky Club membership will also be available to medallions.

More Recognition and Rewards for Long-Term Loyalty

Delta is giving long-term loyalists more of the recognition they deserve. Effective January 1, 2024, the airline is moving Million Miler Status up in the hierarchy for Complimentary Upgrades. And beginning February 1, 2024, Million Milers will also receive enhanced complimentary annual Medallion Status.

6 million miles or more earns Delta 360^o™ (previously Diamond Medallion)
5 million miles earns Delta 360^o™ (previously Platinum Medallion)
4 million miles earns Diamond Medallion (previously Platinum Medallion)
3 million miles earns Diamond Medallion (previously Gold Medallion)
2 million miles earns Platinum Medallion (previously Gold Medallion)
1 million miles earns Gold Medallion (previously Silver Medallion)

Airlines

British Airways Unveils Its Brand-New First Class Cabin for the Airbus A380

British Airways has introduced its brand-new First Class seat, blending sleek design with expert British craftsmanship. Reflecting modern British luxury travel, this new cabin is part of the airline’s Airbus A380 retrofit plans, set to take flight in mid-2026.

The updated First Class cabin has been crafted to feel like a modern luxury hotel in the sky, complete with cozy touches and thoughtful British details.

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Designed by top experts from across Great Britain and Ireland—including London, Glasgow, West Yorkshire, Kilkeel, and Dublin—the seat reflects the best of British design and quality.

Features and Comforts
The new First Class seat is ultra-wide at 36.5 inches, with a bed length of 79 inches for ultimate comfort. It includes:

A multi-purpose ottoman and stowable table.
A 32-inch 4K TV screen.
Adjustable mood lighting with modes like “relax,” “dine,” and “cinema.”
A cocooned 60-inch curved wall for privacy while maintaining a spacious feel.

Passengers traveling together can enjoy a shared experience with a sliding divider that creates a lounge-like space. The stowable tables also allow for “buddy dining,” where two people can dine together.

The cabin’s flowing curves, inspired by the iconic Concorde wings, create a welcoming and stylish environment. Additionally, passengers can now wheel their luggage directly into their personal storage space, making settling in easier.

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British Airways carefully considered customer feedback when designing this cabin. The seat includes practical storage and features like a fully rectangular bed for home-like comfort. Every detail, from usability to elegance, has been designed to enhance the travel experience.

British Airways is proud to be the only UK-based European airline offering a First Class product across the Atlantic. british airways premium economy and First Class travelers enjoy exclusive perks such as stylish seats, access to luxury lounges, fast-track security, and the First Wing at Heathrow. The airline ensures a premium experience from booking to landing.

This cabin upgrade is part of British Airways’ £7 billion investment in improving customer experiences. The airline has already introduced over 120 initiatives, including new short-haul seats, free onboard Wi-Fi messaging, and refreshed lounges worldwide.