#frequent flyers

Watch how fast the frequent flyers turn in their frequent flyer cards. (I was, and I would.)

Excerpt from this story from the Washington Post:

Getting in an airplane long ago ceased to be anything remotely resembling a luxury experience. But in recent years, it has become something else as well — a largely unavoidable form of “climate sin.” Although aviation is a relatively slim sliver of global carbon emissions — around 2.5 percent — at the personal level, it carries an enormous footprint practically unmatched by any other individual action. (Avoiding an international flight from New York City to London, for example, could save 600 kilograms of carbon dioxide from spewing into the atmosphere — about double the effect of going vegan for a year.) The climate activist Greta Thunberg once opted to take a high-speed racing yacht across the Atlantic rather than get in a plane; in her home country, Swedes have started using the word flygskam, which means “flying shame.”

But despite the efforts of activists and climate scientists, most people are unlikely to give up flying. A new report by the nonprofit International Council on Clean Transportation suggests another way forward: A global tax on those who fly the most — the proceeds of which could be used to fund research and development into emissions-free aviation fuels.

“We’re saying ‘If you want to fly more, that’s fine,’” said Sola Zheng, a researcher at the International Council on Clean Transportation and the lead author of the report. “You’ve just got to pay a bit more.”

Hasbro.com catalog for Botbots series 6!

Introduction

Traveling can be both exhilarating and exhausting. Long hours in transit, layovers, and delays can take a toll on even the most seasoned traveler. For those flying with Delta Air Lines, the Delta Sky Club offers a haven from the chaos of busy airports. With over 50 locations worldwide, these lounges provide a comfortable and relaxing environment where you can unwind, refresh, and prepare for your journey. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to gain access to the Delta Sky Club.

Understanding Delta Sky Club

Delta Sky Club is a network of airport lounges for Delta Air Lines frequent flyers and premium customers. These lounges offer various amenities, including complimentary snacks and beverages, Wi-Fi, workspaces, and more. Some locations even feature showers and private meeting rooms. Access to these lounges is highly coveted by travelers seeking a touch of luxury and tranquility before their flights.

Who Can Access Delta Sky Club?

1. Delta Sky Club Members

One of the most straightforward ways to access the Delta Sky Club is by becoming a member. Membership can be purchased annually and typically comes in two tiers:

Individual Membership: This allows the member to access any Delta Sky Club location worldwide. However, this membership does not automatically grant guest access.

Executive Membership: In addition to personal access, executive members can bring up to two guests into the lounge without an additional charge.

2. Delta One and First Class Passengers

Passengers flying in Delta One or First Class on international routes have complimentary access to the Delta Sky Club on the day of their flight. This benefit extends to several premium transcontinental routes within the United States, particularly flights between New York-JFK and Los Angeles or San Francisco.

3. SkyTeam Elite Plus Members

Delta is a member of the SkyTeam alliance, which includes several international airlines. SkyTeam Elite Plus members, traveling internationally on a same-day flight with Delta or its partners, can access Delta Sky Club lounges. They are also allowed to bring a guest, provided the guest is traveling on a SkyTeam airline.

4. Delta Reserve Cardholders

Holders of the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card are granted complimentary access to Delta Sky Clubs when flying on a Delta-marketed or Delta-operated flight. Cardholders can bring up to two guests for a fee per guest.

5. American Express Platinum Cardholders

The Platinum Card® from American Express offers cardholders complimentary access to Delta Sky Clubs when flying on a same-day Delta-marketed or Delta-operated flight. Guests are welcome for an additional fee.

How to Get Into Delta Sky Club

Accessing the Delta Sky Club can significantly enhance your travel experience. Here’s a detailed look at how to get into Delta Sky Club:

Purchase a Day Pass

While Delta no longer sells day passes at the door, some promotional offers and partnerships may occasionally provide day pass access. It’s always worth checking with Delta for any current promotions that might include lounge access.

Use a Credit Card Benefit

Certain credit cards, like the aforementioned Delta Reserve and Amex Platinum cards, provide complimentary access as part of their travel benefits. These cards often come with annual fees, but the benefits can outweigh the costs if you travel frequently.

Fly in Premium Cabins

Booking a ticket in Delta One or First Class on eligible routes automatically entitles you to Sky Club access. This can be a cost-effective option if you value both the flight experience and lounge access.

Utilize Loyalty Program Status

If you frequently travel with Delta or its SkyTeam partners, consider aiming for SkyTeam Elite Plus status. This can be achieved by accruing miles and travel segments, offering you lounge access on international itineraries.

Additional Tips for Maximizing Your Lounge Experience

Arrive Early

To fully enjoy the amenities, plan to arrive at the airport earlier than usual. This allows you ample time to relax, dine, and perhaps even catch up on work before your flight.

Check Lounge Location and Amenities

Not all Delta Sky Clubs are created equal. Some offer unique features such as showers, spa services, or even outdoor terraces. Checking the amenities of your specific lounge location can help you plan accordingly.

Use the Delta Sky Club App

Delta’s app can provide updates on lounge locations, amenities, and even wait times. This can be particularly useful during peak travel seasons.

Be Mindful of Guest Policies

If you plan to bring a guest, familiarize yourself with the specific guest policies related to your method of access. This can help avoid any unexpected fees or disappointments at the door.

Conclusion

Access to Delta Sky Club can elevate your travel experience from stressful to serene. Whether you're a frequent flyer or an occasional traveler, understanding the various ways to gain entry can add significant value to your journey. From purchasing memberships to leveraging credit card benefits, the options are diverse and cater to different travel needs. By planning ahead and taking advantage of these opportunities, you can enjoy a slice of luxury and comfort that makes travel more enjoyable and less taxing. So next time you’re heading out on a Delta flight, consider how you can make your airport experience as smooth and relaxing as possible with a visit to the Delta Sky Club.

Dreams of Luxury Travel: A Cautionary Tale Visions of champagne toasts and lie-flat seats filled my imagination when Azores Airlines accepted my 500-euro bid to elevate my husband and me to business class during our much-anticipated kid-free getaway this past August. However, the reality of our experience was far from the luxurious escape I had envisioned. Our seats reclined just a few inches…