Delta Partially Rolls Back SkyMiles Changes After Customer Backlash, But Spending Requirements Still Increase

Delta Air Lines announced changes to its SkyMiles program in September, increasing elite status requirements. This led to customer backlash.

In response, Delta CEO Ed Bastian sent an email to customers saying they will reduce the increased requirements some, but spending will still be key.

Delta will still eliminate miles/flights for status, and increase spending requirements, just not as much as originally planned.

The changes made some customers threaten to switch airlines. Competitors like JetBlue tried poaching Delta elites.

Despite backlash, Delta says the changes haven't affected credit card signups or spending. The revised requirements take effect in 2023.