What are Delta Medallion Qualification Dollars?
Delta Medallion Qualification Dollars (MQDs) are a crucial component of Delta Air Lines’ loyalty program, the Delta SkyMiles. These dollars represent the currency used to earn Medallion status within the program. Delta Medallion status is a tiered membership that offers various benefits to frequent flyers, including priority boarding, preferred seating, and access to Delta Sky Clubs. Understanding how MQDs work is essential for frequent flyers looking to maximize their benefits and enhance their travel experience with Delta.
MQDs are earned through a combination of flying and spending on Delta flights and partner airlines. Each segment flown on Delta or a partner airline earns a certain number of MQDs, and spending on Delta flights, partner airlines, or even non-airline partners can also contribute to the total. The amount of MQDs earned per segment or dollar spent varies depending on the fare class and the partner involved.
How to Earn Delta Medallion Qualification Dollars
To earn Delta Medallion Qualification Dollars, travelers have several options:
1. Flying: The most straightforward way to earn MQDs is by flying on Delta or partner airlines. The number of MQDs earned per segment varies by fare class, with higher fare classes offering more MQDs. For example, a Delta First Class or Delta Premium Select ticket may earn up to 11 MQDs per segment, while an economy ticket may earn only 5 MQDs per segment.
2. Spending: In addition to flying, spending on Delta flights, partner airlines, or even non-airline partners can also contribute to your MQD balance. This includes spending on tickets, upgrades, and other travel-related expenses. The number of MQDs earned per dollar spent can vary, with higher fare classes and partner airlines offering more MQDs.
3. Credit Card Partnerships: Delta has partnerships with various credit card issuers, including American Express, Chase, and Citi. These partnerships allow cardholders to earn MQDs for purchases made with their Delta SkyMiles credit cards. The number of MQDs earned per dollar spent on the card can vary, with some cards offering more generous earning rates.
4. Delta SkyMiles Credit Card: Delta offers its own credit card, which provides a substantial number of MQDs as a welcome offer and ongoing MQD earnings for purchases made with the card.
Maximizing Your Delta Medallion Qualification Dollars
To maximize your Delta Medallion Qualification Dollars, consider the following tips:
1. Choose the Right Fare Class: Opt for higher fare classes, such as Delta First Class or Delta Premium Select, when possible, as they offer more MQDs per segment.
2. Use Partner Airlines: Flying on partner airlines can also help you earn MQDs, especially if you’re traveling on a partner airline that offers a higher MQD earning rate.
3. Utilize Credit Card Partnerships: Take advantage of the MQD earning opportunities offered by Delta SkyMiles credit card partners.
4. Monitor Your MQD Balance: Keep an eye on your MQD balance to ensure you’re on track to achieve your desired Medallion status.
By understanding how Delta Medallion Qualification Dollars work and implementing strategies to maximize your earnings, frequent flyers can enhance their Delta SkyMiles experience and enjoy the benefits that come with achieving Medallion status.
