Delta Introducing Priority Access Lane to Its Delta Sky Clubs

In an effort to reduce crowding in Delta Sky Club, Delta will slowly be introducing a priority lane for select customers, as first reported by The Points Guy. These passengers will have first dibs on access to the club before other passengers. This may anger passengers who would have otherwise had access through other means, and it may mean that certain passengers will have to wait longer to gain access, but Delta is prioritizing access to its best customers first.

Why This Change?

Nearly every lounge of every domestic airline has become overrun in recent years. In an effort to make more money, airlines have expanded access rules to more and more passengers and forged more and more partnerships, including access through credit cards and financial institutions. Because of this, lounges are incredibly busy areas, and while airlines have made various attempts to reduce crowding, the issue hasn’t been solved.

Delta is creating a new process where they will allow a certain subset of customers access to its Sky Club lounges prior to others with access. To be clear, everyone with access currently can still get into the club, but you’ll be prioritized entry based on various criteria.

Who Will Get Priority Entry?

Entry will be first given to these customers prior to those with general access:

Delta One

If you’re flying in Delta One, which includes select transcontinental flights such as JFK-LAX, or most business class flights to international destinations, you’ll have expedited access. Keep in mind that generally if you’re flying Delta One, access is already included with your ticket.

Delta 360° Status

To hold Delta 360°, you need to be invited by Delta. This is not a public elite tier and is reserved for those who have great influence over purchasing flights on Delta. Membership in the Delta Sky Club is included with this tier.

Delta Diamond Medallion Status

Delta Diamond Medallion is the highest published tier in Delta’s SkyMiles Medallion program. Access is included if you choose a Sky Club membership as part of your Choice Benefits selection.

Flying First Class

If you’re seated in the forward cabin, whether by upgrade or by purchased ticket, you’ll have the opportunity to enter the Sky Club before other customers. Keep in mind that most domestic first class tickets do not include Delta Sky Club access, so you’ll need another means of access to combine with your ticket.

Hot Tip: Check out the full list of U.S. Delta Sky Club lounge locations, hours, and amenities!

Final Thoughts

Delta is really trying to create a better experience for passengers using the club, though inevitably some customers will be angry that they won’t be let into the club first. That said, it’s nice that Delta is trying to solve the overcrowding problem by prioritizing access of eligible guests.