Delta Air Lines announces new improvements to happen in 2023, there will be significant changes to Sky Club access. As a result of a “successful year” (2022) of openings and expansions, Delta is taking steps to reduce overcrowding in its lounges.
According to Travel & Leisure, lounge membership will only be available to Medallion members starting on January 1 and costs will go up. The cost of an individual’s annual membership will rise from $545 or 54,500 miles to $695 or 69,500 miles. From $845 or 84,500 miles, executive membership will cost $1495 or 149,500 miles. Companion passes will cost $50 instead of $39, or 5,000 miles instead of 3,900.
Basic economy ticket passengers won’t be able to access lounges after February 2 unless they have yearly passes or club perks through an American Express credit card.
Beginning in early February, passengers who are not flying Delta One or Delta Premium Select will also not be permitted entry to the club. No longer will Medallion members in the main cabin or Comfort Plus have access to the lounge (unless they possess a Sky Club membership or another method of entry).
Dwight James, senior vice president of customer engagement & loyalty and CEO of Delta Vacations, said in a statement: “While we’re thrilled to see so many customers enjoy the fruits of our teams’ hard work, our goal now is to balance the popularity of the clubs with the premium service and atmosphere for which they were designed — and that our guests deserve.
ELITE MEMBERS WILL BE GIVEN PRIORITY ACCESS TO DELTA SKY LOUNGES
Delta is continuing to prioritize growth despite rising lounge exclusivity. For hubs like New York City, Atlanta, Minneapolis, Fort Lauderdale, Boston, Newark, and Miami, additions and upgrades are in the works.
The airline app will also soon have a “real-time” occupancy tracking capability. Customers will be able to use this feature to anticipate how busy a lounge will be.
Essentially, Delta tells us without telling us that Sky Club exclusivity needs to be upgraded.