Understanding MQMs, MQDs, and MQSs in Delta SkyMiles: A Guide for Elite Status
Delta SkyMiles is a comprehensive frequent flyer program that rewards its members with various benefits based on their flying activity and spending. Three important metrics, MQMs (Medallion Qualification Miles), MQDs (Medallion Qualification Dollars), and MQSs (Medallion Qualification Segments), play a crucial role in determining your elite status within the program. This guide will provide an in-depth understanding of these metrics and how they impact your journey to obtaining elite status.
1. MQMs (Medallion Qualification Miles)
Definition: MQMs are the actual miles flown on Delta and its partner airlines that count toward earning Medallion status. These miles are the primary metric used to measure your flying activity with the airline.
Usage: Members earn MQMs based on the distance flown. Every flight segment flown contributes to your MQMs. For example, a flight from New York to Los Angeles will earn miles according to the distance flew. MQMs can also be earned through certain credit card rewards programs that offer MQM bonuses for using their cards.
2. MQDs (Medallion Qualification Dollars)
Definition: MQDs are the total dollars spent on Delta flights and certain partner flights that count toward earning Medallion status. MQDs are calculated based on the total fare paid, including base fare, taxes, and fees.
Usage: To qualify for Medallion status, members must not only meet the MQM thresholds but also the MQD requirements. MQDs provide an additional layer of eligibility criteria, ensuring that high-value spending with the airline also contributes to your status.
3. MQSs (Medallion Qualification Segments)
Definition: MQSs are the number of flight segments, comprising both takeoffs and landings, that count toward earning Medallion status. One MQS is awarded for each flight segment, regardless of the distance flown.
Usage: Each flight on any airline, whether Delta or a partner, counts as one MQS. This means that even short flights contribute to your MQS total. For example, a round-trip flight with two segments (one outbound and one return) would earn 2 MQSs.
Summary of Usage: Earning Medallion Status
To achieve Medallion status, members must meet specific thresholds for MQMs, MQDs, and MQSs within a calendar year. These thresholds can vary depending on the desired elite level. Higher status levels offer a myriad of benefits, including upgrades, priority boarding, and waived fees.
Benefits of Medallion Status
Higher levels of Medallion status provide a wide range of perks and advantages, including:
Priority Boarding: Early boarding can help you beat the rush and get to your gate faster. Uplines: Boarding passes at the front of the line, ensuring you're one of the first to board the plane. Free Checked Baggage: Additional allowances for overweight or oversized baggage. Waived Fees: Free reservations, changes, and upgrades. Travel Perks: Exclusive access to lounges and special offers on accommodation.Will You Be Getting Enough This Year?
The ultimate question is always: Will you have enough MQMs, MQDs, and MQSs to earn the desired Medallion status this year? Planning ahead and actively seeking opportunities to rack up these metrics can make a significant difference. Taking advantage of end-of-year promotions and last-minute travel deals can provide a boost to your status levels.
Conclusion
Understanding the intricacies of MQMs, MQDs, and MQSs in the Delta SkyMiles program is essential for anyone looking to enhance their flying experience and unlock the benefits associated with higher elite status. By strategically planning your flights and leveraging rewards programs, you can ensure that you earn enough to achieve the desired Medallion status and enjoy the perks that come with it.