Editor's Review:
For frequent fliers, the Platinum Delta SkyMiles credit card from American Express is a popular choice. With so many rewards geared towards accumulating travel benefits, this credit card has one of the best programs of all the Delta SkyMiles card series.
A combined effort of both American Express and Delta Airlines, this platinum card accumulates miles on every dollar that is spent on general purchases. However, there is also the added bonus of double points just for shopping at specific participating merchants and retail locations, including purchased from Delta Airlines.
Upon application approval, customers are awarded 20,000 miles with their very first purchase. These miles include 5,000 Medallion Qualification Miles, which cardholders can use towards travel upgrades, bonus miles, and variety of other bonuses. Adding an additional card holder to the account awards another 2,500 points. Miles do not carry an expiration date, provided cardholders make reservations at least one time in a two year period through Delta Airlines. The number of miles that you can accrue is unlimited. Additionally, each year, card holders are eligible to receive a coach Companion ticket for free upon renewal of the account. You can use your miles to pay for part of your flight or even for the full amount of your airline ticket.
The Platinum Delta SkyMiles card also includes other base customer benefits including $100,000 travel accident insurance, purchase and fraud protection, car rental insurance, and end of the year financial statements that help make tax time even easier. Card holders also can benefit from the guaranteed reservations at hotels and motels during their travel stays. In addition to the insurance offered by the card company, there are medical and legal referral services included extending the help you receive, especially during the times you are traveling.
The Platinum Delta SkyMiles does have an annual fee, which can be reduced for existing American Express account holders and the APR on the card is above average when compared with other credit cards of this standard. But those customers who benefit from the free airline ticket may find that the maximum benefits outweigh the annual fees. Customers who spend at least $3,000 on the card each month will find they gain the most value using the card.
If you have good credit and are looking for a card that offers exceptional travel benefits at a base level in addition to the airline mileage rewards and free airline tickets, the Platinum Delta SkyMiles may be the best card for your needs.
(Review Date: January 14, 2012)