Nick Serati is our co-founder and joined Thrifty Traveler in 2016, shortly after Thrifty Traveler’s launch. In a previous life, Nick worked in supply chain management and traveled extensively fo.
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Few things make travel better than having access to an airport lounge. And if you're flying with Delta (or even one of Delta's Sky Team alliance partner airlines), the Delta Sky Club airport lounge is a great place to … well, lounge before or after your flight. But first, you need to get in.
There are plenty of methods and strategies to gain Delta Sky Club access. But Delta keeps making it harder to get in as it combats overcrowding, including a slate of changes that went into effect in 2022. More restrictions took effect to kick off 2024 … and the worst limits yet are coming early next year.
Flyers who bought Delta basic economy tickets or planned to buy a day pass with their *delta skymiles platinum card* can no longer get into the club, period. Travelers with unlimited Sky Club access through premium travel credit cards will eventually see their visits capped, too.
Take a look at how you can get Delta Sky Club access – today and in the future.
In this postDelta Sky Clubs are a network of airport lounges owned and operated by Delta Air Lines in airports around the world.
With over 200 locations and partner lounges worldwide, you don't have to try hard to find one if you are flying with Delta. If you're at an airport with a major (or even minor) Delta presence, odds are that you'll find one of its lounges there.
Getting into the Delta Sky Club, though, is another matter: You can't just walk into any Sky Club you find. Even a first class ticket with Delta may not get you into the Sky Club.
But these clubs aren't just the domain of business travelers and first class flyers, either. There are plenty of ways to get Sky Club lounge access … but Delta is continuously tweaking who can get in – and when. Most recently, Delta made big changes to how travelers with premium credit cards access the Sky Clubs. Some of those latest changes have taken effect with the start of 2024 while others won't kick in until early 2025.
Delta only allows flyers to enter the lounge within three hours of their departing flight. Delta instituted other restrictions that raised the cost of bringing guests into the Sky Club or buying a day pass – and even making it harder (or more expensive) for flyers with top Delta Medallion Status to get in.
Let's walk through everything you need to know about how to access the Delta Sky Club before (or after) your next trip, what it's like inside, and everything you need to know about Sky Club lounge protocols.
There are many different ways to gain Delta Sky Club lounge access.
Flying business class on Delta (or their partners) can get you in for free. Or you can buy an annual lounge membership (as long as you have some level of Delta Medallion elite status) – or get it free through your top Delta Medallion Elite status.
But increasingly, holding one of the right, top-dollar travel credit cards is the best way to unlock complimentary Sky Club access… at least for now.
Follow this handy Sky Club tip to get into the Delta lounge even faster!
When it comes to lounge access, you won't find a better card option than *amex platinum*.
Just for holding the card, you will receive complimentary access to the Delta Sky Club when flying with Delta that day. You won't be able to bring in guests for free – you can bring up to two guests into the lounge for $50 each.
Thrifty Tip: You can cover those guest fees using the up to $200 annual Amex airline credits – just be sure to select Delta as your preferred airline in your Amex Platinum benefits section!
But this benefit is taking a big hit next year. As of Feb. 1, 2025, Platinum cardholders will be limited to visiting the Sky Club just 10 days each year . On the bright side, you'll be able to visit several Sky Clubs in the same 24-hour period – it still counts as just one of 10 Sky Club passes. Once you've used up all 10 of those days, you can buy additional access for $50 per day.
Best of all, authorized users on the Platinum Card get their own lounge allowance.
In addition to Delta Sky Club access, The Platinum Card from American Express will get you into Amex Centurion Lounges, Escape Lounges, Plaza Premium lounges, and 1,300-plus Priority Pass lounges. Unlike Sky Clubs, there won't be any access limitations for these lounges starting in 2025.
You'll also earn 5x American Express Membership Rewards points for every dollar you spend on airfare directly with an airline or through Amex's travel portal, amextravel.com, and a host of other great travel benefits.
Complimentary Sky Club access is one of the reasons we think the American Express Platinum card is the best card for Delta flyers. Yes, we think it's even better than many of Delta's own co-branded credit cards.
Learn more about *amex platinum*.
Much like the Platinum Card from American Express, the *delta reserve card* or the *delta skymiles reserve business* can get you free Delta Sky Club lounge access. But once again, you have to be flying with Delta that day.
In addition to your own free pass into the Sky Club, cardholders receive four free guest passes to the Delta Sky Club each year. That means four guests can come with you into the Sky Club for free – or one guest four times. After that, you'd simply pay $50 per guest with the ability to bring up to two guests into the Sky Club at a time. Like the Platinum Card from American Express, there is no limit to how many times you can bring guests in with you.
However, starting on Feb. 1, 2025, there will also be a limit on how many times you can use your top Delta Reserve card to get into a Sky Club each year. Reserve cardholders will be able to access the Sky Club just 15 days a year – a bit more than with the (non-Delta) Amex Platinum Card mentioned above.
You can visit several Sky Clubs in the same 24-hour period and still count as just one of 15 Sky Club passes. And once you've used up all 15 of those days, you can also buy additional access for $50 per day.
If you have both a Reserve and Amex Platinum Card, you'll get a total of 25 days of Sky Club access annually. Just as with the Platinum Card, authorized users on the Reserve also get their own lounge allowance, too.
You can avoid these limits altogether by spending $75,000 per calendar year on either of the cards, starting Jan. 1, 2024. If you do so, you'll get unlimited complimentary Sky Club access for the remainder of that year and all of the following year. It's nearly identical to the way that Amex chose to limit guest access to its own Centurion Lounges a while back.
Learn more about the *delta reserve card*
For years, travelers with the *delta skymiles platinum card* in their wallets used it to get into Sky Clubs. You could buy one-time Sky Club passes for $50 per entry. You could also bring in up to two guests for another $50 each.
It was a great way for occasional travelers to get Sky Club access … but it's no longer an option.
As of Jan. 1, 2024, Delta has nixed the option for SkyMiles Platinum cardholders to buy a day pass to Sky Clubs. That's one change that Delta didn't roll back after backlash.
Cardholders with the *delta skymiles gold card* also used to be able to purchase Sky Club access. But Delta eliminated this card benefit many years ago.
Unlike other airlines, there are no day passes to the lounge available for everyday flyers – Delta eliminated that option years ago, too.
You can access Delta Sky Clubs if you fly first or business class internationally with Delta or a Sky Team partner airline like Air France, KLM, Virgin Atlantic, and more.
Certain transcontinental routes within the U.S. in a Delta One business class cabin also get free Delta Sky Club access. It must be branded as a Delta One flight to get free Delta Sky Club entry. You won't be able to bring any guests with you, though.
If you're flying business class out of New York City (JFK), you can do even better: Visit the exclusive new Delta One Lounge instead! These business class-only lounges are also expected to open in Los Angeles (LAX) and Boston (BOS).
Just because you're flying up front with Delta doesn't mean you can get a free pass into the Sky Club.
Most domestic first class fares with Delta (or even to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and even some parts of South America) will not qualify for free Sky Club access. You need to fly in a Delta One cabin, domestically or internationally – or have a credit card or lounge membership that gets you access. But a standard domestic first class seat won't work.
If you fly Delta a ton and make your way up to Delta's top-tier Diamond Medallion Status, you can select a complimentary Sky Club individual membership as one of their three annual choice benefits. As of 2024, there are two options for top Delta flyers.
Flyers with lower levels of Delta status can get into the Sky Club, too – but only on certain flights.
As of 2024, travelers with Delta's Gold or Platinum Medallion status flying internationally in Delta Premium Select or Delta One can use the Sky Club before their flight. You can also bring one guest with you for free.
But an economy or Delta Comfort Plus seat will no longer get you into the lounge, even if you've got Delta Gold status or higher.
Delta allows members to purchase an individual annual membership to the Delta Sky Club – but it'll cost you.
As of Jan. 1, 2023, that price increased from $545 to $695 (or 69,500 SkyMiles) each year. An individual membership comes with no free guest privileges. You can also purchase an executive membership for a whopping $1,495 each year (or 149,500 SkyMiles). Again, an executive membership will allow you to bring in up to two guests per visit for free.
But there is one caveat: You need to have some level of Delta Medallion elite status to buy an individual membership. So unless you have Silver, Gold, Platinum, or Diamond Medallion status, this won't be an option.
This method makes little sense, though. For less money than you would pay for an individual Sky Club membership, you can get complimentary Sky Club access by holding either the American Express Platinum Card or the Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card. Plus, both cards offer a host of other benefits that would make these worth far more than buying a Sky Club membership.
That calculus might change in 2025 once Delta starts limiting the number of times cardholders can get into the Sky Club. But for now, you're better off holding one of the cards rather than buying an individual membership.
It depends on where you go. Every Sky Club is different.
Some Sky Clubs have standout amenities, and none are better than the outdoor Sky Decks that you'll find at lounges in Los Angeles (LAX), Salt Lake City (SLC), New York City (JFK), some Atlanta (ATL) clubs, Austin (AUS), and the new Sky Club near the G gates in Minneapolis-St. Paul (MSP). The massive Sky Deck in Delta's flagship New York City (JFK) lounge is a great spot to relax with a drink for some plane spotting.
Delta is doing more and more to set its newest lounges apart with special decor touches and features. Its lounge in Austin (AUS), for example, has a signature, stylish bar in the center of the lounge where you can sample a flight of bourbon or get a specialty cocktail.
While it might not be restaurant quality, the food at Sky Clubs is often leagues better than what you'll find at other airline lounges. Think eggs and potatoes for breakfast and soups, salads, sandwiches, and entrees for lunch or dinner.
Many of the newest Sky Clubs have taken their food offerings to another level. In Los Angeles (LAX), there are all the usual options like sandwiches, veggies, and snacks … plus a made-to-order taco bar with all the fixings.
At the massive new Sky Club in New York City-LaGuardia (LGA), there was even a build-your-own ramen bowl bar!
From the bar in the Sky Clubs, you can get a free glass of beer, wine, or a cocktail. There's also the option to buy upgraded cocktails or champagne for cash – or SkyMiles.
Self-serve coffee and espresso machines are also open for easy use.
At the end of the day, exactly what you find will vary based on what Sky Club you're visiting. Some of the newest Sky Clubs are outstanding, while older clubs can be small and fairly lackluster.
Check out our reviews of the lounge in Chicago-O'Hare (ORD), Los Angeles (LAX), Seattle (SEA), Atlanta (ATL), Austin (AUS), San Francisco (SFO), Fort Lauderdale (FLL), Washington, D.C.-Reagan (DCA), and Tokyo-Haneda (HND) to get an idea of what the Delta Sky Club experience is like!
Delta has more than 50 Sky Clubs scattered across the country. But even more are on the way.
The Atlanta-based airline has laid out some big plans to open even more Sky Clubs – including several renovations, new locations, and one of its first international locations. Here's a look at what's currently open or on tap:
Delta has put more and more money into new Sky Clubs (and overhauling old ones). But just as with the travel experience as a whole, what you'll find inside Sky Clubs has changed and varies from location to location. Some are much better than others.
All the while, getting into Sky Clubs has gotten a bit harder and more confusing – and more restrictions are coming in the months ahead. Use this guide to navigate the lounge like a pro and make your pre- or post-flight experience more enjoyable.
For years, any Delta traveler could buy a single-visit pass to get into the Delta Sky Club regardless of what seat they were in or what credit card was in their wallets. Both United and American Airlines still do the same.
But they're no longer available at the Delta Sky Club. Delta stopped selling them years ago to combat overcrowding in its lounges. As of 2024, it's no longer possible to buy Delta Sky Club access, no matter which card you have.
Of course, you can get into the Sky Club before your flight. But what about upon arrival?
In the summer of 2022, Delta had planned to ban access upon arrival. But after a major uproar from some of the airline's most valued customers, Delta backtracked on that policy. That means you can still access the Sky Club upon arrival, as always.
Other lounge networks like the American Express Centurion Lounges, and Capital One Lounges have implemented restrictions that do not allow you to enter the lounge upon arrival. However, no major U.S. airlines currently set a time limit on when flyers with lounge access can use their clubs, and they do not restrict access upon arrival.
Flyers who buy the cheapest Delta basic economy tickets can no longer use the Sky Club, period.
As of Jan. 1, 2024, even Reserve and Platinum cardholders are no longer allowed into the Sky Club if they booked a basic economy ticket.
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Nick Serati is our co-founder and joined Thrifty Traveler in 2016, shortly after Thrifty Traveler’s launch. In a previous life, Nick worked in supply chain management and traveled extensively for work. That time on the road started his obsession with credit card points and.
Editorial Disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airlines or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.
Disclaimer: The responses below are not provided or commissioned by the bank advertiser. Responses have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by the bank advertiser. It is not the bank advertiser’s responsibility to ensure all posts and/or questions are answered.
Can you verify the access to the Delta Skyclub ? My husband and I hold both a personal AMEX Platinum card as well as the Delta AMEX Platinum card, both benefits sections say that there is a $29 per person fee to use the skyclub. Am I missing something?
Nick Serati says:The personal Amex Platinum card will provide complimentary access if you are flying Delta. You will not receive complimentary guests, but you can pay a $29 fee to bring guests in with you. With the Delta Amex Platinum card, there is no complimentary status. Lounge access costs $29 and will be increasing to $39 per visit starting on Jan. 30.
Sam Rivera says:Hi Nick, I have both the Delta Skymiles Platinum and the Amex Platinum. If I buy my tickets using the Delta Card to get free checked bags, priority boarding, etc. can I still access Sky Club if I show them my Amex Platinum and boarding pass or will have to purchase tickets directly with the Amex Platinum?
Nick Serati says:Hey Sam. No issue at all. In fact, you don’t even need to pay for the airfare with your Delta card to get those benefits. You will get them just for holding the card. You can buy the flight with your Amex Platinum to get 5x points per dollar you spend. More info here: https://thriftytraveler.com/guides/credit-card/free-checked-luggage-airline-card/ Similarly, you’ll get Sky Club access just for holding the card. It doesn’t matter how you paid for your ticket (as long as you are flying with Delta).
Sam Rivera says: Awesome! Thank you. marky mark says:ugh…that answer is incorrect…buying tickets with Delta card vs. Amex Platinum get’s him/her free checked bags and priority boarding where Amex does not. It only gives you the 5x points.
Nick Serati says:It doesn’t matter what card you pay with. You’ll get the free baggage benefit just for holding a Delta card. So as long as you have both, you could get 5x for paying with Platinum and the bag benefit as long as the Delta card is associated with your SkyMiles account number.
C says:Nick is correct. You can pay with whatever card and get free checked bags just by holding a Delta Gold or above. You get free checked bags for the cardholder and whoever else is on the reservation without having to do anything else. If you have to have a separate reservation because you are using a companion pass and have more family members traveling with you, then the cardholder can show his/her Delta card and get free bags for the other family members.
Mross says: What is the value in having a Delta American Express Platinum card then? M says:I have the Delta Amex Platinum card. I have platinum status for Delta. I understand that I no longer can access the Delta Sky lounge when I fly internationally if flying coach. Can I still access the KLM or Air France lounges? Thank you.
Lisa Winston says:Could you also please clarify the section regarding Diamond status members bringing 2 guests for free into the Sky Club? I believe that you have to elect to use 2 choice benefits for an Executive Sky Club membership in order to bring 2 free guests into the club. You can receive an individual Sky Club membership using one choice benefit.
Nick Serati says:Hi Lisa, you are correct. I updated this to reflect you have to use two of the choice benefits for the Executive level Sky Club membership allowing two complimentary guests.
Alison Quigley says:We are flying Virgin upper class to Seattle, staying overnight in Seattle and then flying to Anchorage with Delta in first class. Are we entitled to use the Delta lounge at Seattle? We do not have any of the credit cards you mention. Thanks
Nick Serati says: I don’t believe so, but I am not entirely sure how they handle Alaska in this regard. Nathan l says: I thought there was also a one time entry fee? Is it still $59? Nick Serati says:They got rid of this at the end of 2018. More info in the linked post. https://thriftytraveler.com/delta-sky-club-passes/
Dustin says: So if I have a domestic 1st class ticket there is no access? Nick Serati says: That is correct. Unless you hold one of the credit cards listed above. Babs Mittleman says:Can I access the sky club if my first class ticket was purchased by someone else using their amex points
Nick Serati says:It depends on where you are headed. A domestic first class ticket doesn’t make you eligible for sky club access
Martha Serensits says:We’ve flown Delta One and Business class internationally and used the sky club. We just flew first class to Hawaii and back from the East Coast and were denied access. It’s difficult to understand why passengers who spend the (large) amount for first class tickets can’t use the sky club.
Nick Serati says:Hi Martha, Delta considers Hawaii a domestic route which unfortunately doesn’t grant Sky Club access for first class passengers.
Sara says:I have Gold status on Delta. We have a long layover on an upcoming trip to FRA. I know I can have lounge access for myself and 1 guest but there are 4 of us traveling together. Can I buy day passes for the 2 additional guests?
Michael Francisco says:The DeltaOne flights to HNL are eligible for Skyclub entry (e.g. ATL-HNL) but the first class flights are not (ATL-SLC-HNL). Btw, the ATL-SLC-HNL flight is on the 767ER or A330 – Same seats with Delta First Class in lieu of DeltaOne amenities and service, but at significantly lower cost.
Brandon says:Is it possible to access the Delta lounges if I am a Sky Miles member but don’t have an Amex card ? I am really thinking about getting the CSR as it works better for me at this time . We live close to MSP which is a delta hub and fly primarily delta
Nick Serati says:Just having a SkyMiles account doesn’t make you eligible to enter. You’ll need to meet one of the requirements listed above.
Greg Jones says:I am travelling by Delta Premium economy from LAX to Sydney on December 25 after having arrived from Honolulu. I simply want to have a shower Do any of the Delta lounges at LAX offer shower facilities at LAX on a casual one time basis
Kyle Potter says:The Sky Club in Terminal 2 has showers. But currently, almost all shower facilities are closed due to COVID-19. That may change by the time of your flight.
Elizabeth says:Hi
We are flying first class from Anchorage to Seattle in July 2022. Will we have access to the Sky lounge?
Unfortunately you will not have access unless you hold one of the credit cards mentioned in the article.
Ray says:Can you clarify if I can bring my wife and three kids into the Lounge with the Delta Amex Platinum card by paying $39 each?
Kyle Potter says:You can only bring up to two guests in with you with your Delta Amex Platinum Card – and you must be flying Delta that day. If you have children under 2, they’re exempt from the guest count.
Terry says:I don’t have the AmEx Platinum card yet but have been thinking about it for a while know. My question is, if I do get the card can I get a joint account with my wife and if so would the card let both of us in for free or just 1 of us?
Nick Serati says:Hi Terry, You absolutely can do it as a joint account, but there are a few things to be aware of. 1) Authorized users on the Platinum Card cost $175 each year. But you can add up to 3 users for the same $175 cost.
2) Authorized users get their own benefits associated with their cards (including their own lounge access). The post below is worth a read: https://thriftytraveler.com/guides/credit-card/amex-platinum-authorized-user/
Hi, could you clarify this for me? I will be flying first class from Atlanta to Costa Rica. Will I be able to use the lounge with this ticket purchase?
Nick Serati says:Hi Bailee. If your flying in a standard domestic first class recliner style seat, that will not qualify you to get free sky club access. You’d need to have one of the credit cards mentioned above
Linda says: Can my daughter traveling alone use my sky lounge benefit if I am not traveling with her? Nick Serati says: Hi Linda. Unfortunately this isn’t possible Mark Raimondi says:Hi Nick, Me and my wife are flying first class to Mexico in May. We do not hold any of the delta credit cards or Am Ex cards. Will we be able to use the Sky Club? Thanks
Nick Serati says: Hi Mark. Unfortunately, you will not be allowed access to the Sky Club. Jon Molina says:I will be on a first class International ticket South America to New York.
Would that allow me access to the Sky club?
Hey Jon. If your flight is sold as Delta One business class, then yes. If you’ll be sitting in the larger domestic first class style recliner seats, generally that will not grand you Sky Club access.
Michelle says:Flying first class from Atlanta to Quito. After going through customs and immigration and getting ones baggage, is it still possible to access the lounge in Quito. We have quite a few hours to wait for another flight.
Nick Serati says:Shouldn’t be an issue as long as you have another flight. Delta allows you to enter as long as you have a same day boarding pass. That means you can even get in after your last Delta flight
Eileen Anderson says: What about access to the Sky Club if you fly internationally Delta Premium Select? Nick Serati says: You will not have access unless you have one of the credit cards mentioned in the post above. John says:I’m flying 1st Class from MEX (Benito Juarez Mexico City) to PBI – FL with a 2 1/2 hour layover in Atlanta. Will I have access to Sky Lounges, and Affiliate Lounges in Mexico City, during my day of flying?
Thanks!
A standard domestic first-class recliner-style seat in the U.S. (or to Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean) will not qualify for free Sky Club access. You need to fly in Delta One or business class internationally or hold one of the cards mentioned in the post.
Julie B. Armstead says:We are flying from San Diego to the Bahamas with a layover in Atlanta. Our flight has changed and the layover has been extended. Can we access the Delta lounge with our first class tickets?
Nick Serati says:Hi Julie, not unless it is marketed and sold as Delta One or you have one of the credit cards listed above.
James Werner says:It looks like Delta has replaced business class on many international flights with Premium Select. Is this a way to further limit access, or are Premium Select users allowed in the Sky Club?
Nick Serati says: Premium Select passengers will not be allowed access into the Delta Sky Club. Michael says:I am flying flat-bed from HLN-SLC in October, but I noticed that it is being referred to as “first” instead of Delta One, even though I’ve confirmed that it is a Delta One seat and cabin. Will I be granted lounge access in HNL? Thanks!
Kyle Potter says:It is a Delta One seat and cabin but it’s only considered Delta One service on select transcontinental and international routes. And unfortunately, that means you won’t get automatic lounge access in HNL.
Dave says: I have a Delta SkyMiles Blue card, I’m flying Delta. Will I be able to access the lounge? Nick Serati says: Hi Dave, the SkyMiles Blue card does not grant any sort of Sky Club lounge access. Sorry Sierra says: Can I access Sky Club with my Delta Amex Platinum but not flying Delta? Nick Serati says: You need to be flying Delta with a same day boarding pass to access the lounge. Benjamin J Messer says:Would anyone know if I am still able to use the one day lounge pass I received while holding my Amex Reserve? After I downgraded to Platinum I discovered I received 10 passes. They have not expired and are in my Delta wallet.
Nick Serati says:Unfortunately I don’t believe these will work. I tried this recently and as soon as I closed my Delta Reserve card the passes were deactivated and wouldn’t scan.
Bill says:I am flying Virgin Atlantic from Manchester (UK) to Atlanta and then getting a connection to Greensboro. Both flights in premium economy. I have Gold medallion status. Will I be able to use the lounges in Atlanta?
Trent says:I have the Delta Skymiles Amex Platinum. If I go to a Delta Skyclub in my departure city then go again in Atlanta while connecting flights in the same day is that considered one $39 charge or would that be $39 charge per location? Someone mentioned at one time the ability to go between multiple lounge locations in Atlanta but didn’t know if that still applied or possible with multiple cities.
Nick Serati says:Hi Trent. This would be considered multiple visits and you would need to pay the $39 in each location, unfortunately.
Jason V. says:When I was in Minnesota (or Detroit…) back in September 2021, I was able to “SkyClub hop” for no cost during my duration as I waited for my next flight with my wife. I had AMEX Platinum, Delta Reserve and was a Gold Medallion then while my wife only has the AMEX Platinum.
Nick Serati says: Those cards will allow you to do that as long as you have a same-day Delta boarding pass. Sandra M campbell says:Good day I am a gold medallion member flying from Germany to the US would I be eligible to access the lounge +- guest ?I also use my gold card all the time over $10k.a year !
Nick Serati says:Hi Sandra. Not unless your flying on a Premium cabin ticket like Delta One. Your Delta SkyMiles Gold card doesn’t have any Sky Club access privileges.
Pendar says:This is incorrect. As a gold medallion member you can access the lounge on international flights as long as you are flying delta (or a skyteam partner) that day.
Nick Serati says: Thanks. You are correct. I misspoke Gil Kim says:Nick, as a gold medallion member, can you access the lounge while making connection flights after international flight on the same day?
Thomas Szyman says:I have American Express Platinum card for entry to the Delta lounge, I tried to pay my wife’s $29 free with my Hilton Amex card I currently get an $250 Delta airline credit, they wouldn’t take has payment, the lady working there seem new and wasn’t quite sure about the rule, does Delta lounge take other American Express cc?
James says:They wouldn’t take the amex card? Or they wouldn’t take the airline credit? IIRC the way the airline credit works is that it gets applied to your monthly statement after you use your card.
Richard L says:Hi Nick,
I hold the Delta Skymiles American Express Reserve Card and have several guest passes not used. Can I use them to bring in three family members into the JFK Delta Lounge? I will be travelling from New York to LAX on Main Cabin.
Thanks!
Hey Richard. Unfortunately, you can only bring up to two guests in with you on each visit to the Sky Club.
Karen Pilliod says:Four of us are flying from Atlanta to Quito next week. Two of us are first class and two are Delta comfort. One of us travelling in first class has the Platinum card. Will the two first class passengers get free access to the Sky Club, and can we bring the other two in for a charge as guests of the platinum card member?
Nick Serati says:The first-class passengers will not get free Sky Club access. The Delta Platinum cardholder can get in for a fee of $39 and bring up to two additional guests at $39 each.
Karen Pilliod says: What if two of the passengers are Delta Gold and Delta Platinum travelers? Karen Pilliod says: I meant to say Gold Medallion and Platinum Medallion. Nick Serati says: Doesn’t matter in terms of getting into the Sky Club Michael French says:If we have a delta skymiles gold card and buy the delta sky club individual membership, can you get into the sky club? I read something about gold card members not being allowed into the sky club anymore. Do I have to use my delta skymiles gold club card to get additional people in to the sky club? We are traveling delta same day flight as well. Thanks!
Nick Serati says:Hey Michael, there would be little reason to buy a Sky Club membership as it costs $545. You could upgrade your Delta Gold Card or apply outright for the Delta Reserve card which includes a Sky Club membership. Once you have membership, you will still have to pay $39 to bring up to two guests in with you.
CC says:Hi Nick
I am going to Paris CDG in May. Do you know if I can use any of the Delta lounges in Paris CDG after my arrival? Do you know much about those Delta lounges in CDG? I think they’re probably operated by Air France. Thanks1
I am using Virgin points to buy a Delta One seat from ATL to DUB. Does that still qualify to get into the lounge given that the seat is purchased through Virgin points? Also, I was only able to get an ecomomy seat from FLL to ATL will I still be able to get access to the lounges in FLL and ATL given my connecting flight is in Delta One? Thank you 🙂
Nick Serati says:Hi Andrea. As long as you have a delta one flight that day, you should be able to get into the Sky Club in both locations. Cheers and have a great trip!
Kari says:Hi Nick. I’m flying from Sarasota to Athens with a layover at ATL and JFK. I purchased a Delta one business class ticket. Will I be able to use the sky club in Atlanta? Thanks.
Nick Serati says:Hi Kari. Yes, a Delta One business class ticket will get you access. Even if it isn’t departing out of that airport. As long as you have a same-day boarding pass in Delta One you should be good.
John B says:Hi Nick, I am traveling tomorrow and have a Amex Skymile Platinum, I have my wife and 2 kids, 1 of them under 2. Also my inlaws are coming. My wife is a authorized user for the Platinum, could she get her parents in as the guest and then I bring the 1 child as a guest?
Maggie says:Hi Nick,
I am traveling international on a Delta First Class ticket, I have Amex Gold and Delta Amex Gold, will I be able to go into the Club for a fee or did they eliminate that as well? Thank you
If you’ve got Delta’s Gold or Platinum Medallion status, you can get into the Sky Club when traveling internationally on Delta or a SkyTeam airline – even if you’re flying economy.
Carlos says:So i know that you can access the lounge when you have a delta one ticket… but I’m traveling from JFK to BOG on first class not delta one. can I still access even if its international… I did once Delta one to BOG from JFK and I got into the lounge and I know there is a difference btwn first and delta one.
URSULA says:Hi. We are flying later this year IAH/MIA/LIS. We purchased premium select comfort economy, will we be granted lounge access at MIA airport and LIS airport? We do not have any status with Delta nor any of the stated credit cards. Thanks.
Faith says:Hi Nick, could you verify if I have a Delta AmEx Reserve card and my signficant other has a card that is linked to my account, do we both have access or do I need to use a guest pass for him? Thanks!
Nick Serati says: You would need to use a guest pass or pay $39. Bonnielee bruns says:I have the following question. We are flying Delta from Tampa to Atlanta in comfort class and then Delta One out of Atlanta in the evening to Amsterdam. Will be able to have enter the Sky Lounge in Tampa before the flight without paying due to the Delta One flight the same day?
Steve Thompson says:I have been a Lifetime Member of Delta’s Crown Room Club for a long time. It appears they have changed the club name to Delta Sky Club. Will my existing Crown Room Club card allow access to all Delta Sky Clubs at the executive membership level?
DD says:Hi Nick, I am traveling from Texas to New Delhi on delta economy with 7 hour layover at Amsterdam, I am sky miles member , can I have access to lounge , if not , how can I buy it. Thanks!!
Rolando says:Hey Nick, I purchased a flight from MIA to LHR directly from Delta, but the flight is operated by Virgin Atlantic. Both my wife and I are Amex Platinum card holders and we’re wondering if we would be allowed to use the delta lounges. Thanks!
Nick Serati says: This shouldn’t be an issue. DeShannon Hatala says:Hi Nick,
I am traveling with my 11 year old son on Delta to London-Heathrow in August. We are flying from DC to Detroit and have a 3 hour and 45 minute layover before we leave for London. I have the Amex Delta SkyMiles Platinum card, so I should be able to get into the Delta lounge if I pay $39 for each of us correct? Thanks in advance for your help.
We will be travelling First Class from Orlando to NY with a long layover until our Business Class flight to Paris. Please tell me we will be able to use the lounges. Coming back we will be leaving Amsterdam Business Class to Atlanta and changing planes for first class to Orlando.
Jeanette Brown says:My husband and I have 2 first class tickets from JFK to FAI, with 2 layovers. Will just having 1st class tickets allow us to use the Delta Lounge? Thank you
Nick Serati says: It will not. You’ll need to have access from one of the other methods outlined in the story above. Frenchie says:My husband and I just flew Delta Premium Economy from Amsterdam to the East Coast and got into the Amsterdam lounge with no problem. We were in the system.
GregC says:The guest rules for the Amex Delta Reserve card say that the Amex Delta Reserve card must be used to pay the $39 guest fee in order to use the guest privileges. I also have the Amex Platinum card. After I use my 2 guest passes that come with the Amex Delta Reserve card, will I be able to pay the $39 guest fee using the Amex Platinum card so that I can use the $200 airline credit (Delta is my selected airline) to cover the $39 guest fee? Recently, I noticed that the Delta app knows that I have the Amex Delta Reserve card and I can simply scan my boarding pass at the kiosk for access to the SkyClub without having to show the Amex Delta Reserve card. I can even use one of the guest passes that come with the Amex Delta Reserve card at the kiosk without having to show the Amex Delta Reserve card. All that is very convenient, but my concern is that the $39 guest fee (after my guest passes are used) will be charged to the Amex Delta Reserve Card (at kiosk check in) without giving me the option or ability to select the Amex Platinum card as the form of payment for the $39 guest fee (even though the Amex Platinum card also allows a guest in the the SkyClub for $39).
Gerald says:I am flying from Grand Rapids to Lima Peru with a connection in Atlanta, the segment from ATL to LIM is in Delta One and the segment to ATL from GRR in first class. Will I be able access the skylounge in all 3 airports? If not which ones?
Theo says: I have got delta Gold madellion statue, flying international on economy, can I get access to use Bryan says:My brother in-law gave me one of his guest passes. I won’t be traveling with him. Will I be able to access the lounge if I am flying Delta that day using the guest pass?
Nick Serati says: Unfortunately, you need to be traveling with the cardholder who the guest pass came from to use it. Christine says:We are traveling to Punta Cana from Detroit with a layover in Atlanta on a Delta flights. If I purchase the $39 passes with my Delta Sky Miles Platinum American Express are they good all day at both lounges? Or do you have to pay $39 for each lounge?
Nick Serati says: You would need to pay the $39 at each lounge. Cindy says:Hi Nick, thank you for this forum. Late 70’s/early 80’s I purchased a Delta Crown Room Club Lifetime Membership, but I haven’t flown Delta for many years since joining Alaska Airlines’ Frequent Flyer Mileage Program – They honored the Delta membership for access to the AA Board Room up until the two airlines parted ways. Is my Delta Lifetime Member card just a worthless piece of plastic now or are they “grandfathered” in for access to Delta’s lounges if I’m flying Delta?
Mike Erikson says:I’m super confused about this whole thing. I wish @Delta would just add a link to see if you qualify or not… I am a Platinum Medallion who bought a coach ticket with my Delta Plat AmEx, was immediately upgraded to first flying GEG-SEA-ATL-CUN. When I arrived at SEA I went in to check and – boom! They let me in? Same when I arrived at ATL the next morning? And again on my way home at SEA traveling CUN-SEA-GEG? To make it even more confusing I had messaged with Delta on my app and the person I was chatting with said that I did not qualify since I was in first class and not “Delta One”…
Next week I Have a flight seated in Delta Comfort+ GEG-SEA-CDG and am trying to figure out if I can use the clubs in CDG or SEA – outgoing or incoming. My flight doesn’t have “first” class cabin; rather it has a “Delta One” and a “Delta Premium Select”. It currently is not looking like I will receive any upgrades beyond comfort plus and I’ve heard that I cannot be upgraded higher. I do have some upgrade certificates, however they are “regional” and not global… They’re making it all too complicated!
In a few weeks I’ll be flying into JFK on Delta First Class, and then going to Heathrow on Virgin Atlantic Upper Class (shared Virgin/Delta flight). The Virgin Clubhouse is closed in the middle of the day – would I be able to access the Delta Sky Club? If so, how strict are they being on the 3 hour before the flight limit?
Thank you,
Likely yes, however, they are pretty strict on the 3-hour rule. The system is hardcoded not to allow it.
David says: BB says:“But effective Feb. 2, 2023, only travelers with status flying internationally in Delta Premium Select or Delta One can use the Sky Club before their flight. That means an economy or Delta Comfort Plus seat won’t get you in with Delta Gold status or higher.” Currently, flights to Mexico give GM+ Skyclub access. Since there is no D1/PS to Mexico, will a FC ticket count as a ‘premium fare’ and allow access in 2023?
Nick Serati says:That’s a great question. We are not seeing anything in the terms of the new rules that specifically answer it.
FRANK RIZZO says:Virgin Atlantic economy ticket on a Delta operated US domestic flight. Does my Amex platinum get me sky club access?
Eric says:My wife has an executive membership that won’t renew until May 2023, and I’m trying to figure out if it’s worth renewing early at the lower $845 rate before it increases on Jan. 1. My wife uses the Sky Club for business travel once every couple of months, but we see the best value in it when traveling as a family of three since she can bring in two guests for free. We’re spending the next year and a half looking at schools, so we expect to take at least five trips next year for that on top of other travel. I just got a Delta Skymiles Reserve card that would give me access, but at $50 a visit to have the ability to bring in our teen-aged daughter would be at least $500 round-trip for the trips we have planned. My hope is that by renewing the executive membership early, doing that would tack on an extra year of unlimited free access for up to two guests all the way to May 2024. At that point, paying over $1,000 for a membership definitely won’t be worth the privilege, and my wife can piggyback on my club access from the Reserve card as an additional card member for an extra $150 on top of the $550 annual card fee. Does this make sense? If our experience this summer with a ton of kids in the Sky Clubs changing the atmosphere, I understand if they’re trying to make the lounges less family friendly, but we’re trying to find a way to preserve our family’s travel perks without breaking the bank.
Lyn says:According to a 2021 article, Delta Airlines and WestJet have partnered to have reciprocal flight arrangements. As a Delta airline partner, it is also stated in a 2023 article, that for the Delta Sky Club, passengers flying premium on a partner airline will have access to the Delta Sky lounge. 1. What is required to enter the Delta Sky lounge – for example at the HNL Airport? Will the boarding passes, same day flight in Premium class be sufficient? Please respond.
Bob says:Since I purchased an Executive Delta SkyClub membership back in November 2022, can I assume that I will continue to have free access along with my guest until my renewal date realizing I still need to honor the 3 hour rule?
Nick Serati says: Hi Bob, my assumption would be that this works until your renewal date. J.hopland says:Eliminating the option for those with diamond status to select guest access for the delta reserve card as a choice benefit only affects Delta’s top customers who are both Diamond and have their highest card. This is also the group that can immediately status match to any other airline. Seems a very poor choice to target that group.
Dave Collins says:Flying Delta One Fra to JFK, First Class JFK to ATL and First Class Atl to Ags
Can I access the lounges at JFK and Atl?
I am a Delta retiree, non rev passenger. DO I have access to the lounge if I have an AMEX Platinum card? Or are non rev travelers never allowed to use the lounge? Thank you.
Laapsaap says:I am on the flying blue program as plat. I dont expect to get lounge access when flying delta domestically. But if I pay for first class aka business class. And drop 3-4 times more than ecomony, i expect to be able to access the lounge for free. But it isnt. I really dont understand how this make any sense.
Rhea98 says:I’m sorry that you did not get access when, perhaps, you should have. There are a few technicalities; however, Delta posts Sky Club access “When traveling on a Sky Team flight (excluding Delta): 1.Customers traveling on a same-day international (*international is defined on Delta.com) First or Business class ticket on a SkyTeam-operated flight; 2. In order to qualify for Club access, the customer must be confirmed in the First or Business class cabin for all segments of their journey.” We are flying KLM BOS>AMS>GOA in Business Class. Based on what Delta posts, I expect to get Sky Club in BOS (terminal E). There will be alternatives if, for some reason, access is denied, but I will ask for clarification if that happens.
Jay says:How is the Amex verified to be let in the door? I don’t have one by my mother does, could I theoretically use hers to get in? Or is there another protocol?
Nick Serati says: It would need to match the name on the boarding pass so you wouldn’t be able to use your mothers. Kumar says:Hi Nick,
Thanks for the wonderful post, really helpful. Just a quick question: We have Amex Platinum credit cards but flying on KLM flight to AMS (from Austin). We have purchased our flights on Delta, so can we still access the Sky Club lounge in Austin?
First class ticket does not let you access to Sky Club, they turn you away, don’t be fooled, I had international First Class and I was not allowed in
Tony says:Thank You Ramon, that answer was what I needed and confirmed going right back to United after this trip. Definitely won’t be using Delta again. First and last.
Errol Hoberman says: I have a Delta Sky Club life membership, do any of these changes affect me?I flew SEA-PTY in March 2023 r/t per Delta. Two flights both ways, ATL was hub for 1st & 3rd. Upon arrival (flt 1) I approached Delta lounge and although I was 1st class for entire booking, was not allowed access, even though was international flight. Delta lounge concierge said only for int’l passenger in 1st class w/seat-into-bed crossing water was allowed. Not much chance of that on four 738-/9 flights. Was I just being told outright untruth or is this the actual case?
Mike says:I’m flying from YUL to LGA on a Delta Flight in First Class (Operated by Endeavor Air DBA Delta Connection). My ticket indicates Sky Priority, however I am confused about Lounge Access. I do not have any C/C nor am I a higher level member. Will I be able to access the lounge?
Thanks
My friend and her daughter are flying First class from LAX to Amsterdam on Aug 3rd. Are they allowed to use the lounge in LAX while waiting for their flight ? Then can my friend use a lounge in Berlin for her
return flight home ?
Last month I used my skymiles to purchase a DL award ticket for my adult grandson. The redemption was very cheap, so I went ahead and bought a First Class seat.
Not understanding the rules, he mistakenly thought he was allowed access to the Delta Sky Club and so he confidently entered the place at a serendipitous moment when the desk just happened to be unattended.
I found out about this when he texted me a photo of a bowl of chowder with a note: “Enjoying some delicious clam chowder and a drink before the flight. Thanks.”
I got a real chuckle out of this.
