In this article you will learn how Delta Air Lines calculates its SkyMiles and Medallion Qualification Miles. In addition, you will learn a few ways to earn miles without ever having to get on an airplane.
Look at the total flight distance for any upcoming flights. SkyMiles are calculated at a 1-1 ratio, meaning that for every mile you travel, you earn one SkyMile. Delta bases its mileage calculation on the total distance between the origin and destination.
Sign up for a SkyMiles account on Delta's website. You can redeem miles for Delta flights flown up to 30 days before you enroll.
Keep track of your flights. You are not able to redeem more than 30,000 SkyMiles in one calendar year. But you'll have the option to use your miles in the next calendar year or to give your miles to another SkyMiles member. On discounted fares, you'll earn 500 miles or the total distance from origin to destination, whichever is greater. On Y, B or M classes of Delta service (see Delta's website for full details on flight class), your miles will equal 150 percent of total mileage. If you fly first class or business class, your SkyMiles equal 150 percent of the recorded mileage on all flights.
Purchase miles on Delta's website or by calling 800-323-2323. Purchased miles can be used toward award travel or upgrades but cannot be used toward any of Delta's Medallion programs.
Convert miles from any of Delta's partner programs, such as American Express (a list of partners is on Delta's website). Points in partner programs are mostly transferable to Delta SkyMiles at a 1-1 ratio.
Convert miles from any of Delta's airline partners, such as Aeromexico, Air France or Alaska Air. For most partner airline flights, you can redeem miles at a 1-1 ratio.
Learn about the SkyMiles Medallion program. This program gives you access to flight upgrades and other perks. The SkyMiles you earn through flights will automatically be transferred into Medallion Qualification Miles. In addition, certain route segments count as Qualification segments and will help you achieve higher status.
Earn 25,000 Medallion Qualification Miles or 30 Qualification Segments to become a Silver Medallion Elite member.
Earn 50,000 Medallion Qualification Miles or 60 Qualification Segments to become a Gold Medallion Elite member.
Earn 75,000 Medallion Qualification Miles or 100 Qualification Segments to become a Platinum Medallion Elite member.
