New Feature from Delta: Ability to Request an Upgrade Certificate Online

Delta Airlines has recently introduced a noteworthy enhancement to the SkyMiles traveler experience, deeply appreciated by its elite Medallion members. Despite mixed reactions due to the planned price hikes and exclusivity measures at Delta SkyClub Lounges, this upgrade underscores Delta’s commitment to advancing its services. By offering enhanced benefits and opportunities for members to earn and redeem miles, Delta is bringing its customers fully into the modern era of air travel.

Delta Airlines launched a new system allowing SkyMiles members to apply for Delta upgrade certificates directly via their online booking platform. This much-awaited update, initially slated for a 2023 release, made its debut sooner than expected, much to the joy of Delta’s faithful clientele. Members can now seamlessly select and apply their certificates for complimentary upgrades on eligible flights, enhancing their travel experience with greater comfort and premium services.

What is a Delta Global Upgrade Certificate?

In essence, this certificate is a prized asset for SkyMiles members, enabling them to upgrade to a superior cabin class from what they initially reserved, subject to seat availability. Travelers booked in the main cabin can potentially upgrade to a premium cabin, while those already in premium cabins may relish the luxury and exclusivity of Delta One, Delta’s pinnacle of service offerings. Additionally, Diamond and Platinum Medallion members benefit from increased upgrade opportunities. A vital note is that these upgrades might not clear immediately, as Delta often waits until the last minute to confirm certificate upgrades based on a variety of factors, including Medallion status and purchased class of service.

Delta Airlines historically lagged in offering digital ease for redeeming upgrade certificates. These certificates, granted as choice benefits for Platinum and Diamond Medallion members, offer significant travel advantages, including priority boarding, complimentary seat upgrades, and additional baggage allowances. Members can also earn and redeem miles more efficiently, maximizing the benefits of their elite status.

• Platinum Medallion members receive 4 Regional Upgrade Certificates, redeemable only on domestic flights.
• Diamond Medallion members have the option of selecting 4 Global Upgrade Certificates, 8 Regional Upgrade Certificates, or a mix of 2 Global and 4 Regional Upgrade Certificates, available for both domestic and international flights. Additionally, members can use these certificates for premium cabin selections or to secure companion upgrades. Note that each upgrade certificate is valid for a one-way flight only, including layovers, meaning round-trip flights would require two certificates.

Fundamental Differences Between Delta Regional Upgrade and Delta Global Upgrade Certificates

Delta Regional Upgrade Certificates (RUCs) and Delta Global Upgrade Certificates (GUCs) differ in terms of scope, eligibility and usage. Here are the main differences between them:

1. Scope of Applicability

• Regional Upgrade Certificates (RUCs):
  • Designed for domestic and short-haul international flights.
  • Covers flights within North America, including the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean.
• Global Upgrade Certificates (GUCs):
  • Usable on international long-haul flights as well as domestic flights.
  • Covers Delta flights worldwide, including transatlantic, transpacific, and South American routes.

2. Eligible Classes for Upgrades

• RUCs:
  • Upgrade from Main Cabin or Comfort+ to First Class, Delta Premium Select, or Delta One on domestic routes.
• GUCs:
  • Upgrade from Main Cabin or Comfort+ to Delta Premium Select, Delta One (business class), or Delta One Suites on international routes.
  • Can also upgrade from Delta Premium Select to Delta One on eligible flights.

3. Upgrade Clearance

• RUCs:
  • More likely to clear on domestic flights due to greater availability of upgrade inventory.
• GUCs:
  • Highly sought after and subject to stricter availability constraints, especially on high-demand international routes.

4. Upgrade Priority

• RUCs:
  • Medallion status plays a significant role in determining upgrade priority on domestic flights.
• GUCs:
  • Upgrades on international flights often face higher competition, making it crucial to apply them as early as possible.

How to Use Delta Upgrade Certificate Online

The old process forced Medallion members to make flight bookings online and later contact Delta directly to apply their upgrade certificates. Delta has now overhauled its booking platform, allowing members to include these certificates during the checkout process. This upgrade not only simplifies the booking experience but also enhances the ability to select preferred seats and cabins, ensuring a more comfortable and efficient travel experience for all members.

The steps to employ a Delta upgrade certificate on your reservation have been simplified to an all-time ease, allowing members to quickly apply their certificates for complimentary upgrades, select preferred seats in premium cabins, and enjoy the full range of elite benefits without additional hassle:

1. Navigate to Delta.com and log in to your Delta SkyMiles account.
2. Search for flights.
3. During checkout, look for Upgrade Certificate Request.
4. Select which flight to apply the upgrade certificate—each leg of the journey requires a separate certificate (round-trips need two certificates).
5. Finalize your booking.
6. Check your email or the Fly Delta App notifications for confirmation of your upgrade certificate or addition to the waitlist for an opportunity for a seat upgrade. Bear in mind that applying an upgrade does not always result in an immediate upgrade; the availability might influence whether you’re successful or put on standby.

Details About Upgrade Certificates

Delta’s upgrade certificates provide versatility, as they are valid not only on Delta-operated flights but also on routes covered by partner airlines such as AeroMexico, Air France, KLM, Korean Air, and Virgin Atlantic. This global network ensures that members can utilize their certificates for a wide range of domestic and international flights. It’s crucial to remember, though, that seats are subject to availability, and using an upgrade certificate doesn’t assure immediate seating upgrades. Each certificate covers a one-way trip, including layovers. If an upgrade does not clear for all legs, the certificate is still considered used, emphasizing the importance of strategic planning when booking tickets.

For those booking through Delta Vacations, the process for applying Delta upgrade certificates remains offline, requiring direct assistance from Delta staff. Members holding a Delta credit card or those with elite status can access additional benefits and personalized support to ensure their travel plans include the desired upgrades and premium services.

Bottom Line

Delta’s inclusion of an online method for applying upgrade certificates marks a substantial improvement for Platinum and Diamond Medallion members. This advancement not only streamlines the upgrade procedure by eliminating the need to engage with customer service but also enables swift notifications about upgrade request statuses. Members can now enjoy express booking options, complimentary companion upgrades, and enhanced seat selection, making the booking experience more efficient and rewarding. This revamp of Delta’s booking experience is a much-anticipated upgrade, expected to be particularly popular among frequent flyers acknowledging the growing complexity in the realm of complimentary upgrades.

We’re keen to hear your thoughts on this new functionality. Has the online Delta upgrade certificate application process enhanced your booking journey? Share your insights in the comments below.