
Use upgrade certificates to fly in lie-flat comfort on Delta transcons (Image: Delta)
Today we received the following update from Delta about upcoming changes to the SkyMiles program. (Since this news is so fresh, some links may not work until later today…)
Take a read through this and share your thoughts about the changes below, please!
COAST TO COAST COMFORT
For Diamond and Platinum members we are introducing greater flexibility with your Medallion Choice Benefits. Effective July 21, 2015 you can use Regional Upgrade Certificates in addition to Global Upgrade Certificates for a Delta One™ seat on eligible transcontinental flights between New York – JFK and Los Angeles – LAX or San Francisco – SFO. Regional Certificates are part of the wide array of Choice Benefits Diamond and Platinum Medallion members are able to select upon status qualification.
OUR LOWEST AWARDS
When we announced the SkyMiles 2015 program we committed to making more award seats available at the lowest prices and compared to last year, we’ve increased Award availability by more than double at the lowest prices to make it easier to use your miles. You’ll also find One-Way Awards starting at just 7,500 miles (plus taxes and fees) now through February 2016. To see the best availability and deals, search at least 21 days prior to departure and use our Award Calendar by selecting “flexible days” when searching for a flight. For more information visit: http://www.delta.com/content/www/en_US/shop/deals-and-offers/north-america/flights-to-north-america.html?icid=FS_US
HEADS UP FOR SUMMER 2016
We know your miles are important, so we want to provide the most notice possible regarding Award price changes. For travel on or after June 1, 2016, the number of miles needed will change based on destination, demand and other dynamics. Most Award prices will remain unchanged. Miles needed to upgrade under the Mileage Upgrade Award program will increase, and to provide greater access to these upgrades, we’ve expanded the eligible types of fares. Learn more about Mileage Upgrade Award changes: http://www.delta.com/content/www/en_US/skymiles/use-miles/mileage-upgrade-awards.html

Earn miles when purchasing upgrades to Delta comfort+ seats like these (Photo: Delta)
MORE WAYS TO EARN
Starting July 21, 2015, you can now earn MQDs and miles when purchasing Preferred Seats, Delta Comfort+, and paid upgrades to the Premium cabin.
EASIER WAYS TO REDEEM
It’s easier to use your miles with the ability to book Awards at delta.com on more partner airlines than ever (22 total now). We are working to add more partner airlines over time.

Delta’s Sky Club at SFO during week of May 18 (Image: Chris McGinnis)
Also, we learned today that the tentative opening date for Delta’s long awaited new Sky Club at SFO is slated for August 28, but it subject to change.
Okey doke– what do you have to say about the changes? Please sound off in the comments!
Hugely pleased to have one-way awards. Made the SkyMiles program so much more attractive. Excellent availability for one trip so far this year.
Oops thought you meant 22,500 each way
Huh? 22,500 for a round trip is ‘overpriced’?
Way overpriced
I have to say I was quite happy to be able to book open jaw tickets from BOS to Charleston, then MCO to BOS for my four family members at just 22,500 miles each last week