I’m breaking up with you, Delta.
For over a decade now, I have been an avid traveler who has been extremely loyal to Delta Airlines and their SkyMiles frequent flyer program. I have never had any customer service complaints and their in-flight services have always been top-notch.
That said, I recently started to explore the different airlines’ rewards programs because, let’s face it – things change after a decade.
I browsed a few of the online travel forums and I read all of the pros and cons carefully. I immediately ruled out smaller airlines like JetBlue and Southwest because they don’t offer service to some of the places I travel to the most. What I discovered was interesting – it was down to either staying with Delta or exploring American Airlines’ AAdvantage – their frequent flyer program.
I immediately realized that their program was far superior to what Delta is currently offering. A lower number of miles required for reward travel, a convenient number of airports serviced, and great reviews online in which most put the program in the top three out of all of the domestic rewards programs currently offered.
So, I signed up. I also applied, and was approved for, the Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® card with a very generous credit limit. It currently has one of the best sign-up bonuses in the world of airline credit cards, including 30,000 bonus miles after spending only $1,000 in the first three months, and a waived annual fee for the first year. It is tailored to domestic travelers but also rewards international travelers with zero foreign transaction fees. With increased international travel in my future, it will serve me well.
Not to mention, Citi offers a great program called the Concierge service. Basically, its personalized service from a Citi representative to help book concert tickets, restaurant reservations, and even vacation packages simply by calling and requesting the assistance. Access to exclusive event pre-sales and miles earned for everyday purchases are also exceptional perks.
Unfortunately, Delta has never offered such great perks as American currently is offering, even throughout my entire time with them over the last 10+ years of loyalty. It remains to be seen if I will even keep my SkyMiles account active, but I’m betting that I won’t after I receive my AAdvantage documents and get fully indoctrinated into the program, which should be within 7-10 days.
So, goodbye, Delta…and hello, American! This is the start of a beautiful relationship.
