Following the wave of negative changes Southwest Airlines has recently announced—including charging for checked bags, implementing 9-group boarding, and devaluing some of its most well-loved perks—Delta Airlines has stepped in with an enticing opportunity for Southwest’s A-List and A-List Preferred Members.
Similar to its competitors, American Airlines (see my post here), Delta is now offering a Status Match Challenge that allows Southwest elites to receive complimentary Medallion Status for 90 days. And if they meet spending requirements, they can extend their status all the way through January 2027. This limited-time offer is available through September 30, 2025.
Why Make the Switch to Delta?
With Southwest moving away from its signature customer-friendly policies, travelers may be looking for an alternative that still provides strong elite perks. Delta’s SkyMiles program offers a robust loyalty experience, with benefits including:
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Miles that never expire and can be redeemed on 1,000+ destinations worldwide.
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No blackout dates for award travel.
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Complimentary upgrades for Medallion Members, including for a travel companion.
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Waived baggage fees for Medallion members.
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Priority boarding and preferred seats for a smoother airport experience.
For Southwest elites who are frustrated with upcoming changes, this is a great time to test out Delta’s loyalty program with no commitment.
How the Delta Status Match Challenge Works
For a limited time, Southwest A-List and A-List Preferred Members can match to a higher Medallion Status when enrolling in the challenge.
Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility
You qualify if:
✅ You haven’t received a Delta Status Match since 2022.
✅ You earned Southwest A-List or A-List Preferred status through regular qualifications (not a promotion).
✅ You have been a SkyMiles member for at least 30 days and have taken at least one Delta-marketed flight (Basic Economy excluded) in the last three years.
Step 2: Submit Your Request
If eligible, submit your request with:
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Proof of Southwest A-List or A-List Preferred status (screenshot of digital or physical membership card).
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A statement showing your earned elite status and the corresponding activity with that airline that made you achieve that Status, with your name on it.
Once submitted, Delta typically reviews requests within 15 business days.
Step 3: Enjoy Medallion Status for 90 Days
Once approved, Southwest elites will receive complimentary Medallion Status for 90 days based on their current tier:
| Southwest Status | Delta Matched Status |
|---|---|
| A-List Preferred | Platinum Medallion |
| A-List | Gold Medallion |
Step 4: Extend Your Status Through 2027
To maintain Medallion Status beyond the 90-day trial, members must earn Medallion Qualification Dollars (MQDs) from Delta flights:
How to Earn Medallion Qualification Dollars (MQDs)
MQDs are earned based on the base fare and carrier-imposed surcharges of Delta-marketed flights. The fastest ways to earn MQDs include:
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Flying on Delta and its partner airlines, with MQDs earned based on ticket price.
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Using a Delta co-branded credit card, which allows you to earn MQDs through everyday spending.
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Booking premium cabins like Delta One, First Class, or Comfort+ for a higher MQD accumulation.
For Southwest A-List members accustomed to earning elite status based on flights rather than spending, this MQD-based system might require adjusting your strategy, but it does provide more flexibility since you can earn status without necessarily needing a high number of flights.
Other Airlines Are Eligible for Delta’s Status Match Challenge
While this limited-time offer is tailored for Southwest elites, Delta also allows status matches from other airlines. If you have elite status with another airline (excluding Delta airline partners) that meets Delta’s participation criteria, you can still apply for the challenge.
🔗 See the full status comparison chart here
Final Thoughts: Should Southwest Elites Take the Offer?
With Southwest introducing fees for checked bags and making major changes to its boarding process, this Delta Status Match Challenge provides an opportunity to test out a full-service airline with more elite benefits, international routes, and premium options.
While Southwest’s no-change-fee policy and simple rewards system are still strong selling points, Delta’s Medallion perks, global reach, and ability to earn and redeem miles across multiple airlines may be an attractive alternative for frequent flyers.
If you’re a Southwest A-List or A-List Preferred Member, this is a no-risk opportunity to explore Delta’s loyalty program and decide if it’s a better fit for your travel needs.
🔗 Learn more and submit your match here
Are you considering making the switch? Let me know your thoughts below! ✈️🚀
