As Delta prepares for another year of its modernized SkyMiles structure, the airline is taking a measured approach to elite status for 2026, balancing stability in how travelers qualify with a refreshed set of Choice Benefits aimed at offering more flexibility. Unlike past years when major changes reshaped the entire program, this update is more about refinement than overhaul, giving flyers clear expectations heading into the new qualification cycle. Delta announced the following chages on December 2nd, 2025.
The core of the program remains based in Medallion Qualification Dollars. MQDs are earned through eligible Delta and partner airline tickets, select credit card spending, and vacation packages booked through Delta Vacations. The airline is keeping the same thresholds in place: $5,000 MQDs for Silver, $10,000 for Gold, $15,000 for Platinum, and $28,000 for Diamond. By keeping these targets unchanged, Delta is giving members a clear and stable path toward earning status next year.
Where travelers will see the most change is within the 2026 Choice Benefits, the rewards Platinum and Diamond members select after qualifying. These options are meant to help fliers shape their status around their travel habits, and Delta is expanding several of them in practical ways. Giftable status becomes more generous next year, Platinum members will be able to extend Silver status to more people than before, and Diamond members will gain the same expanded ability with Gold. For families, business travelers, or those who help coordinate group trips, this greater reach gives elite status a larger impact.
Above: A graphic orginally created by Delta Air Lines show the changes from the Delta Medaillon Program from 2025 to 2026. The image has been enhanced by FlyRadius from the original. Used under the fair user provision.
Mileage bonuses tied to Choice Benefits are also increasing. Both Platinum and Diamond members will see larger mileage awards, offering more flexibility for redemptions and solidifying the importance of miles as a currency within Delta’s ecosystem. Travel credits are also increasing, giving members another straightforward way to use their benefits throughout the year.
There is one area where benefits get reduced slightly: the credit linked to eligible Delta branded American Express cards is decreasing. While the benefit remains available, the adjustment means travelers may evaluate their selections more carefully rather than defaulting to the credit as their primary choice. Still, the broader upgrades elsewhere create a net positive gain, and members will have several updated options to consider when choosing their benefits.
For flyers approaching the year end push to qualify, the unchanged thresholds reduce uncertainty. Holiday travel, a strategically booked Delta Vacations package, or targeted card spending may bridge the gap for those just shy of the next tier. For those who have already secured their 2026 status, the updated Choice Benefits offer a clear picture of what those perks will look like in the year ahead.
Taken together, these updates reflect Delta’s continued focus on a simplified, spend based qualification model. Keeping the thresholds steady while adjusting the benefits tied to status gives travelers a straightforward view of how the program will operate next year. In a space where loyalty programs often see significant year-to-year changes, Delta’s 2026 Medallion update takes a more measured approach, offering consistency through simple refinements rather than major shifts.
