Delta has announced on its official website that it will make a series of changes to the entry requirements for its airport lounge network, Delta Sky Club, in 2023. Overall, access is becoming more restrictive. Delta will also open 8 new lounges.
The stated reason, of course, is to better protect the experience of premium travelers. With more people gaining lounge access through credit cards, status matches, and other methods, airline lounges have become increasingly crowded. It would not be surprising to see many other airline lounges follow suit.
The main changes are as follows:
- Annual-fee Sky Club Passes will only be available for purchase by Diamond, Platinum, Gold, and Silver Medallion members (general members without status will no longer be eligible). The individual pass price will increase from $545 to $695. Guest pricing will increase from $39 to $50.
- For Diamond members, selecting Sky Club as an annual Choice Benefit will require more points.
- Passengers flying Basic Economy will not be allowed in even if they have a paid annual Pass (exceptions apply for AMEX Platinum and Centurion cardholders).
- Elite members on international itineraries can no longer receive a Sky Club Pass.
- Guest access pricing for companions of AMEX Platinum, Centurion, and Delta Reserve cardholders will also increase to $50.
However, the other access rules have not been updated:
- Delta 360 Members;
- Elite Plus members of other SkyTeam airlines;
- Delta and SkyTeam Elite Plus members flying in Delta Premium Select and Delta One (or partner airline equivalent) cabins;
- any customers in Delta One (or partner airline equivalent) cabin.
There are also a few improvements:
- The app now offers real-time lounge crowd tracking.
- 8 lounges are scheduled to open: MCI, MSP-G, JFK-T4A, FLL, BOS-E, EWR-A, MIA, ATL-E (timing varies).
