[Expired] Southwest Elite Flyers Can Now Claim Delta Medallion Status — Here’s How

If you’re a Southwest elite member considering a change in loyalty, now’s the perfect time to make a move. Through September 30, 2025, Southwest A-List and A-List Preferred members can apply for a status match with Delta Air Lines.

If approved, you could be matched all the way up to Delta Platinum Medallion status — unlocking valuable perks like complimentary upgrades, bonus SkyMiles, and more.

Let’s take a closer look at the terms of this unique status match promotion.

New Delta Status Match Promotion for Southwest Flyers

Southwest A-List and A-List Preferred members are eligible to take part in Delta’s Medallion Status Match Challenge. By applying anytime from now through September 30, approved participants will receive complimentary Delta Medallion status for 90 days:

• A-List members: Receive Delta Gold Medallion status
• A-List Preferred members: Receive up to Delta Platinum Medallion status

To qualify, you must not have participated in a previous Delta status match promotion between 2022 and 2025. When applying, upload a photo of your Southwest membership card that clearly shows your name and status level.

Additionally, you’ll need to have a free Delta SkyMiles account that’s been active for at least 30 days before enrolling in the promotion. You must also have taken at least 1 Delta-operated flight — in a fare class above basic economy — within the past 3 years to be eligible.

The complimentary elite status level lasts 90 days, beginning within 24 hours of receiving your enrollment confirmation email.

How To Extend Your Delta Status

There is also the chance to extend the duration of your Delta Medallion status. During the 3-month trial period, you would need to meet the following threshold for Medallion Qualification Dollars (MQDs):

• Silver Medallion: Earn $1,250 MQDs
• Gold Medallion: Earn $2,500 MQDs
• Platinum Medallion: Earn $3,750 MQDs

Once you complete the challenge, you’ll enjoy your new status level through January 31, 2027!

Traditionally, you’ll earn 1 MQD per dollar spent on Delta flights. In other words, to keep Silver Medallion status, you’ll need to spend $1,250 on Delta flights.

However, it may be easier than you think to earn MQDs. With a Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum American Express Card, Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum Business American Express Card, Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card, or Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve Business American Express Card, you’ll get a $2,500 MQD Headstart every year per card you have.

Therefore, possessing one of the aforementioned credit cards would allow you to maintain Gold Medallion status until January 2027, making it an obvious choice.

Final Thoughts

In case you missed it, Southwest Airlines is rolling out major brand changes soon. From eliminating its generous 2-free-checked-bag policy to introducing assigned seating, it’s understandable that its most loyal flyers are disgruntled by the changes ahead.

That said, Delta is swooping in and offering a unique status match opportunity that may convince you to switch your loyalty. Just be sure to submit your application before the deadline of September 30, 2025, to get 3 months of free status.