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Benefit cut for top-tier Delta elite members as airline shakes up boarding process
Clint Henderson
Managing editor
Clint Henderson is a managing editor at TPG who has worked in the journalism industry for more than 25 years. He is obsessed with travel and has used points and miles to explore the world.
May 08, 2025
•
2 min read
Benefit cut for top-tier Delta elite members as airline shakes up boarding process
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There's been a downgrade for Delta Air Lines' top-tier Delta 360 elite members as Delta shakes up the boarding process again.
Delta 360 is Delta's invite-only unpublished status tier among the most exclusive status levels in the sky. American Airlines has a similar Concierge Key level, and United has Global Services.
Prior to this news, Delta 360s were allowed to preboard all Delta flights, along with those who needed extra time and those in first class. But beginning May 16, Delta 360 members will be in Zone 2, along with Delta Diamond elite members.
"At Delta we regularly refine our boarding processes to ensure a more seamless and efficient experience for all customers," a company spokesperson told TPG.
The news was first reported by Ben Schlappig at One Mile at a Time.
More from TPG: Here are the best credit card welcome offers for May
It was just over a year ago that Delta shook up its boarding process to allow 360 elite members to preboard, also unveiling numbered boarding zones.
Now, preboarding will be reserved for those needing extra time and for active-duty military members.
Zone 1 will be for Delta One or first-class passengers, followed by Diamonds and 360s in Zone 2.
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Delta pointed out that twice a year, the company refines its gate announcement scripts to make them shorter and more concise, improving gate announcement clarity and reducing gate crowding.
Delta also said the vast majority of Delta 360 members fly first class or Delta One and board in Zone 1 anyway, so the impact of this adjustment is very minor.
Related reading:
- Delta SkyMiles: Your complete guide to earning, redeeming and elite status
- Best Delta credit cards
- Delta Medallion status: What it is and how to earn it
- Maximize your airfare: The best credit cards for booking flights
- The best credit cards to reach elite status
- Delta basic economy: What you need to know about bags, seats, boarding and more
Featured image by CLINT HENDERSON/THE POINTS GUY
Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.
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