How to Get Upgraded on Delta?

Getting an upgrade on Delta Air Lines can significantly enhance your travel experience, offering more space, comfort, and premium services. There are several primary methods to secure an upgrade, ranging from utilizing your SkyMiles to leveraging elite status benefits or purchasing them directly.

Upgrade Your Flight with SkyMiles

One straightforward way to upgrade your Delta flight is by using your accumulated SkyMiles. This option is available for eligible reservations and can be processed directly through Delta's website.

Steps to Upgrade with Miles:

1. Log in: Begin by logging into your account at delta.com.
2. Select a Ticket: Choose the specific flight reservation you wish to upgrade.
3. Check Eligibility: If your reservation qualifies for a mileage upgrade, you will see the "Upgrade with Miles" option displayed in your Trip Summary before you finalize your purchase.
4. Apply Miles: Once selected, your SkyMiles can be used to upgrade all passengers included in your reservation.

It's important to note that the availability and cost in miles can vary based on the specific fare class, route, and demand for the desired cabin.

Complimentary Upgrades for Medallion Members

Delta SkyMiles Medallion Status is one of the most common pathways to receive complimentary upgrades. As you climb the status tiers (Silver, Gold, Platinum, and Diamond), your upgrade priority and eligibility increase.

• Eligibility: Medallion members are eligible for complimentary upgrades to Delta One (on select domestic routes and short-haul international flights with a First Class cabin), First Class, Delta Comfort+, and Preferred Seats.
• Priority: Upgrades are processed based on a sophisticated hierarchy that considers:
  • Medallion Status (Diamond, Platinum, Gold, Silver)
  • Fare Class (higher original fare class gets higher priority)
  • Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Cardholders (priority boost)
  • Million Miler Status
  • Date and Time of Booking (earlier booking can help)

These complimentary upgrades are typically processed automatically leading up to departure, with Diamond and Platinum members often clearing earlier than Gold or Silver.

Utilize Global and Regional Upgrade Certificates

For Platinum and Diamond Medallion Members, Upgrade Certificates are a valuable Choice Benefit. These certificates can be used to upgrade to a higher class of service, offering a guaranteed upgrade when confirmed.

• Global Upgrade Certificates: Can be used on nearly all Delta-marketed and operated flights, including international and domestic routes, allowing upgrades into Delta One or First Class cabins.
• Regional Upgrade Certificates: Generally valid on routes within the 50 United States, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and some Central/South American routes, typically for upgrades into First Class or Delta Comfort+.

These certificates provide a more reliable path to upgrades compared to complimentary Medallion upgrades, especially for longer or more competitive routes.

Purchasing Upgrades

If status or miles aren't an option, Delta frequently offers the ability to purchase upgrades with cash. This can be done at various stages of your travel journey:

• During Booking: Sometimes, you can select and pay for a higher cabin class (e.g., First Class, Delta Comfort+, Delta Premium Select, or Delta One) directly when you purchase your original ticket.
• Pre-Departure: After booking, check your reservation under "My Trips" on delta.com or via the Fly Delta app. Delta often presents cash upgrade offers here.
• At Check-in: During online or airport check-in, you might receive offers for discounted upgrades to available premium cabins.
• At the Gate: On occasion, if premium seats remain unsold close to departure, gate agents may offer last-minute upgrades for a fee.

Prices for paid upgrades are dynamic and depend on the route, demand, time until departure, and the cabin you are upgrading to.

Leverage Delta SkyMiles Credit Card Benefits

Certain Delta SkyMiles American Express credit cards can also enhance your upgrade potential. For instance, holding a Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card can boost your priority on the complimentary upgrade list, placing you above other Medallion members within the same tier who do not hold the card. This subtle advantage can be crucial on popular routes where upgrade lists are long.

Summary of Delta Upgrade Methods: