Delta just announced some major SkyMiles changes to its program, as the airline continues to shake up its SkyMiles program. It’s never a dull moment with Delta and this latest announcement is no surprise. Read below for the full announcement:

COAST TO COAST COMFORT
Now you can use Regional Upgrade Certificates in addition to Global Upgrade Certificates for a Delta One™ seat on eligible transcontinental flights starting July 21, 2015.* Regional Certificates are part of the wide array of Choice Benefits you enjoy as a Platinum Medallion member.

OUR LOWEST AWARDS
Compared to last year, we’ve increased Award availability by more than double at the lowest prices to make it easier for you to use your miles. You’ll also find One-Way Awards starting at just 7,500 miles (plus taxes and fees) now through February 2016. To see the best availability and deals, search at least 21 days prior to departure and use our Award Calendar by selecting “flexible days” when searching for a flight.

A HEADS UP FOR SUMMER 2016
We know your miles are important, so we want to provide the most notice possible regarding Award price changes. For travel on or after June 1, 2016, the number of miles needed will change based on destination, demand and other dynamics. Most Award prices will remain unchanged. Miles needed to upgrade will increase, and to provide greater access to these upgrades, we’ve expanded the eligible types of fares.

MORE WAYS TO EARN
Starting July 21, 2015, you can now earn valuable MQDs and miles when purchasing Preferred Seats, Delta Comfort+, and paid upgrades to the premium cabin.

Bottom Line

The biggest change here comes to redeeming Delta SkyMiles starting June 1, 2016. Since they no longer have award charts, they’re now going to be changing the miles needed “based on destination, demand and other dynamics”, which is not what any SkyMiles member wants to hear.

Another negative is the new mileage upgrade awards. Even though they are opening up the fare classes (mainly on domestic flights) they amount of SkyMiles you’ll need to upgrade is outrageous, so I’d hardly say this is a positive thing.

One perk is the new Platinum and Diamond Medallion transcon upgrade change with the Regional Upgrades, however there is a huge negative to this, which we’ll be posting later this evening, so stay tuned..

What is your take on this latest devaluation from Delta?

Hat Tip: Delta Points