Soar with Benefits: Is the Delta SkyMiles Reserve Amex the Right Card for You?

For frequent Delta flyers, the Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card offers a tempting array of perks. But with a hefty annual fee, is it worth the splurge? This premium credit card is not just a tool for earning miles; it’s a gateway to a more luxurious travel experience. Let’s explore the benefits and see which travelers will get the most value.

Benefits Tailored for DeltaLoyalists

• Earning SkyMiles: This card shines in mileage earning. You’ll get 3X miles on every dollar spent directly with Delta and 1X mile on other purchases.
• MQD Boost: A big perk for frequent flyers chasing Delta Medallion Status. The card offers an annual MQD headstart of $2,500 and earns you 1 MQD for every $10 spent, giving your Medallion qualification a jumpstart.
• Airport Lounge Access: Relax in style with complimentary access to Delta Sky Clubs for you and traveling companions. This benefit has a change coming in February 2025, so be sure to check the Amex website for updates. https://global.americanexpress.com/card-benefits/detail/delta-sky-club-access/delta-reserve
• Free Checked Bags: Save on baggage fees with a free first checked bag for you and up to eight travel companions on the same reservation.
• Priority Boarding: Skip the boarding scrum with Main Cabin 1 priority boarding.
• Travel Credits: Enjoy credits towards hotels booked through Delta Stays, rideshares, and Global Entry or TSA PreCheck.
• Hertz Perks: Elevate your car rentals with complimentary Hertz President’s Circle status.

Delta Hub Advantage:

Living near a Delta hub airport unlocks the true potential of this card. Here are some of Delta’s busiest hubs in the US:

• Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL): Delta’s largest hub and the world’s busiest airport by passenger traffic, Atlanta serves as a premier gateway to both domestic and international destinations.
• Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP): A key Midwestern hub offering extensive routes across the United States, Europe, and Asia.
• Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW): Acts as a critical junction for flights across the East Coast, Midwest, and international locations.
• John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and LaGuardia Airport (LGA) in New York: Serving as Delta’s prime East Coast operation centers, offering vast domestic and international flight options.
• Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC): A major western hub providing comprehensive access to the West Coast and mountain region destinations.

Who Benefits Most from the Delta SkyMiles Reserve Card?

The card is ideal for:

• Frequent Delta Flyers: Those who fly with Delta regularly can maximize benefits like lounge access, companion certificates, and priority boarding.
• Travelers Who Value Comfort: If you appreciate Sky Club lounges, seat upgrades, and smoother travel experiences, this card is for you.
• Medallion Status Aspirants: The MQD Headstart and MQD Boost features help you inch closer to elite Medallion Status.
• Travelers who fly out of Delta hub airports and can maximize the lounge access and priority boarding.

Consider This Before Applying

The $650 annual fee is a significant cost. Be sure you can justify it with the value you’ll receive in miles, credits, and perks. If you’re an occasional Delta flyer or base your flights out of a non-hub airport, a different travel rewards card might be a better fit.

The Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card is like a golden ticket for travelers who love flying with Delta, enjoy luxury perks, and want to level up their SkyMiles game.

So, is the Delta SkyMiles Reserve Amex right for you? Weigh the benefits against the annual fee and your travel habits. For dedicated Delta flyers who crave a smoother travel experience, this card could be a perfect match.