be a Delta Medallion elite member. These certificates allow you to upgrade from a lower class of service to a higher one, such as from economy to business class or from business class to first class.
Global Upgrade Certificates can be used on any Delta-operated flight, including international flights. They can also be used on select partner airlines. These certificates are valid for one-way travel and can be used for a single passenger or for multiple passengers on the same reservation.
Regional Upgrade Certificates, on the other hand, can only be used on select Delta flights within the United States, Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean. These certificates are also valid for one-way travel and can be used for a single passenger or for multiple passengers on the same reservation.
To use these upgrade certificates, you must first request an upgrade using the Delta website or app. If there is availability and you meet the eligibility requirements, your upgrade will be confirmed. It’s important to note that these upgrade certificates have their own priority hierarchy, which determines who gets upgraded first. Delta Diamond and Platinum Medallion members have the highest priority, followed by Gold and Silver Medallion members.
Upgrades with miles
In addition to upgrade certificates, you can also use your SkyMiles to upgrade your seat. Delta offers a program called SkyMiles Upgrade Awards, which allows you to use your miles to upgrade from a lower class of service to a higher one. The number of miles required for an upgrade varies depending on the flight and the class of service you want to upgrade to.
To use your miles for an upgrade, you must first request an upgrade using the Delta website or app. If there is availability and you have enough miles in your account, your upgrade will be confirmed. It’s important to note that upgrades with miles have their own priority hierarchy, which determines who gets upgraded first. Delta Diamond and Platinum Medallion members have the highest priority, followed by Gold and Silver Medallion members.
Upgrade priority process
The upgrade priority process determines who gets upgraded first when there are limited seats available for upgrades. The process takes into account factors such as Medallion status, fare class, Delta Reserve cardholder status, million miler status, and the date and time of the upgrade request.
Diamond and Platinum Medallion members have the highest priority and will be upgraded first. Gold and Silver Medallion members have lower priority and will be upgraded after Diamond and Platinum members. Fare class also plays a role, with higher-priced fares having higher priority than lower-priced fares. Delta Reserve cardholders and million miler members also have higher priority.
It’s important to note that the upgrade priority process can vary depending on the specific flight and the number of available upgrade seats. In some cases, upgrades may not be available at all due to high demand or other factors.
Conclusion
The allure of a free seat upgrade is a major perk of Delta Air Lines’ Medallion elite status. While the upgrade process may seem mysterious, understanding the eligibility requirements, upgrade options, and upgrade priority process can increase your chances of snagging a seat in the front of the plane. Whether it’s through complimentary elite upgrades, upgrade certificates, or upgrades with miles, Delta offers a variety of options for travelers looking to upgrade their flying experience. So, buckle up and start chasing that free seat upgrade on your next Delta flight.